Medication and Treatment Adherence

Importance of Adherence

Following your doctor’s orders increase your chances of a better health outcome. Taking drugs as prescribed or finishing a prescribed course of treatment works best. Risks of stopping medications or treatment can be severe.

Medication and Safety

You should take some time to understand what medications you take, what they are for, how to take them, and if there are side effects. Ask your doctor for information.

When possible, you may save time and money by having your prescriptions filled in 90-day supplies rather than 30-day supplies. Not all medications are available in 90-day supplies, such as specialty drugs.

Medical Treatment

Make sure you understand what the recommended treatment is and why it is being recommended. Ask questions such as:

• What are my treatment options?
• Why are you recommending this particular treatment plan?
• How often do I have to take it?
• When will the treatment be done? / How long will it last?
• What will happen if I don’t take the treatment?
• Are there any side effects to the treatment?
• What other aspects of my life will it affect – diet, exercise, new/different medications, etc.?

Benefits

Most prescriptions may be filled in either 30-day or 90-day supplies.

MA members enjoy some coverage during the gap stage. Members may also save money on each prescription by using preferred pharmacies.

Commercial members may fill prescriptions at any network pharmacy.

Medical treatment benefits depend on the type of treatment recommended. See your member materials for details of your coverage.

Resources

• Drug Guide - Find Drug Information, Check Drug Interactions, Identify Your Pill
• Antibiotic Resistance
• Medication Safety
• Poison Control Hotline: 1-800-222-1222
• Being More Engaged