First, your doctor sends your prescription electronically or via fax to the pharmacy. Many pharmacies use electronic systems, speeding up the process.
Next, a pharmacist reviews the prescription for accuracy and potential drug interactions. They check your medication history for allergies or contraindications. This usually takes a few minutes to an hour, depending on the pharmacy’s workload.
The pharmacy technician then prepares your medication. This involves retrieving the medication from stock, counting the pills or measuring the liquid, and labeling the bottle with your name, dosage instructions, and any warnings.
The pharmacist then verifies the technician’s work, ensuring accuracy and safety. They will double-check the prescription against your medication profile.
Finally, you receive a notification that your prescription is ready for pickup. You can pick up your medication during pharmacy operating hours; some pharmacies offer convenient online ordering and curbside pickup.
If you have questions about your medication, don’t hesitate to contact your pharmacist. They are there to help you understand your treatment plan and answer any concerns. Always bring your insurance card when picking up a prescription to minimize delays.