For most of us, our normal routines have gone out the window since COVID-19 began. The uncertainty during this time can cause anxiety and make it easy to forget typical, daily tasks. For some, this might include taking prescribed medications.
Remembering to take your medicine, and taking it correctly, is very important because it helps keep you healthy. Having trouble managing your medication during this pandemic? We’ve got some tips to help you out.
Get on a schedule
One day can easily start blending into the next when you are not in your normal routine. Since COVID-19 began, many of us have been sleeping in, staying up late, and eating at odd hours of the day.
When your normal routine in disrupted, so are the usual tasks in that routine, which may include taking medications. Even though your days may look different right now, you can still get into a routine that helps you remember to take your medicine.
Here are some tips:
- Buy a pill calendar or put pill bottles in a prominent spot where you’re sure to see them.
- Take your medication when you do regular daily activities. For example, it could be after you eat breakfast or before you’ve brushed your teeth for bed. However, don’t change your medication schedule without checking with your provider. It may be important to continue taking certain medicines at a specific time of day or to follow other guidance in order for them to be most effective.
- Set alarms on your smartphone or put sticky notes up in your home to remind you to take your medications.
Stay connected with your health care provider
Your health care provider might have a new process from handling medication refills during COVID-19. Because of this, when you need a refill it is important to not wait until the last minute to get in touch.
If you need an appointment before they can order your medication, there may be telehealth options available due to COVID-19. If not, their office will have social distancing measures in place.
Other ways your provider might be able to help is by providing 90-day prescriptions. If cost is an issue, you can ask if there are similar medications available at a lower price. The most important thing you can do at this time is stay in touch with your provider. That way, you will know your options.
Lost your health care insurance? Here are some options
Millions of Americans have lost their jobs due to COVID-19, and potentially their health care insurance as well. Not having medical insurance may impact your ability to refill and pay for the medication you need to stay healthy. Luckily, there are programs out there that can help!
Check out these potential resources:
- Subsidized health plans available through healthcare.gov
- State-run programs like Medicaid
- Patient assistance programs through pharmaceutical companies like GSK, Novartis and Pfizer
- Pharmacy discount cards and coupons
Keeping up with your medications shouldn’t become less of a priority during COVID-19. Our health care providers are working hard to help patients maintain their health during this pandemic and beyond.
Learn more about the primary care services we offer at Bon Secours.
