Informed Care ER Card
Spring 2008

ER Card Offering Medication Profile Reviews

As part of our “hands-on healthcare” approach, ER Card has partnered with the University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy to screen member profiles for opportunities to improve the safety and effectiveness of medication use. A clinical pharmacist is on location weekly at the offices of ER Card on Main Street in West Warwick to assist in the coordination of medication management across multiple providers. If you are interested in a review of your medication, please call (401) 822-1181

"On site medication screening is a prime example of how ER Card is applying technology and hands-on healthcare to improve the safety of patients by reducing medication-related errors."

Using the ER Card medication profile data source, clinical pharmacists are examining medication regimens to identify instances of therapeutic duplication of generic and brand name medications, high-risk drug-drug interactions, and other potentially inappropriate uses of medication. Many ER Card member profiles already have been reviewed, and ER Card staff have notified members about potential medication-related problems. The medication review process continues to be extended to other targeted ER Card member profiles.

“On site medication screening is a prime example of how ER Card is applying technology and hands-on healthcare to improve the safety of patients by reducing medication-related errors,” explains Maria Gil, partner of ER Card.


 

Know the FACTS about YOUR Medications

Key Questions to Ask Your Physician

  • What is the name of the medication that you will be prescribing?
  • Why am I taking this?
  • How/When should I take it?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • How long will I be taking this?
  • What results should I expect to see?
  • How quickly will it work?
  • What are the side effects?
  • What should I do if side effects occur?
  • When should I call you about side effects?
  • Should I avoid any food or beverages (including alcohol) while on this medication?
  • Should I avoid any activities while taking this medication?

Other helpful tips to be better prepared for your next trip to the doctor’s office:

  • Bring a list of questions that you might have to your visit
  • Have a list of your current symptoms, including those that may have changed
  • Allergies and adverse reactions (side effects) to medications should be listed with an explanation of what the reaction was
  • List all medications that you are currently taking along with the strength and directions on how to take it
  • List any caffeine and alcohol you drink in an average day
  • If you smoke, list smoking habits in an average day

If you are unable to take your medication as directed, tell your physician. The following may be reasons to ask for another medication

  • Cost
  • Complicated dosing schedule
  • Difficulty swallowing pills, giving yourself an injection, using eye drops

 


Calming Allergy Flare-ups

Allergies are a hypersensitivity to a foreign substance that is usually harmless, but causes a violent reaction in the individual. The most common types of allergies are nasal allergies and chronic allergies. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, bacteria, insects and animal dander. Symptoms of allergies include a runny nose, coughing, itchy eyes and nose, stuffy nose, sneezing and difficulty breathing.

Allergies cannot be cured, however, the following techniques can help relieve some of the inconvenient and uncomfortable characteristics of an allergy flare-up:
• Avoid the allergen, if possible
• Use air filters in your home
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist which of the following is right for you: Antihistamines, Leukotrene Blockers, Nasal Steroids or Vitamin C
• With severe reactions your doctor may discuss allergy shots

 
ER Card, LLC • West Warwick, RI 02893 • 1-888-8RECORD • www.er-card.com