It’s time to take an active role

This will be the first in a five part series about prescription drug options for older adults. The introduction will provide guidance so that you can become an informed consumer or an advocate for your loved ones.

Television, pharmaceutical companies, discount pharmacy chains, newspapers, radio and health plans all vie for your attention. It can often be confusing and difficult to gather honest and up to date information that will be important to your personal health. It is important to work with your medical providers and take an active role in your health care options.

Starting Monday, August 9th the following will be the topics for helping you to make the best decisions:

Part I: Steps to managing medications

Part II: Tips for effective prescription drug use

Part III: Generics and myths

Part IV: Getting the best value

This resource was made available to encourage consumers to take an active role in their overall health care. The information will provide consumers with a better understanding about managing chronic conditions, saving money and help reduce the potential for harmful drug interactions.

Question to ask your health care partners (specialists, local pharmacist, health plan or insurance company, primary care physician, lab technicians, physician assistant or nurse) are:

• Which prescriptions are the most important to maintain good health?
• Are generic drugs as effective as brand name?
• What happens if I skip dose or cut my does in half?
• How can I reduce the risk of drug interaction?
• How can I save money on health care and still maintain good health?

Cited: http://www.n4a.org

Consumer Reports Best Buy Drugs is a public education project that can assist you in talking to your doctor about prescription drugs. It will also help you find the most effective and safe drugs that will in turn give you the best value for your health care dollar.