Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. It is especially important between a patient and a healthcare provider or pharmacy. Requiring and receiving care is a vulnerable position for patients to find themselves in. That’s why it’s crucial for providers and pharmacies to answer their questions and give them confidence in their course of treatment.

In the pharmacy industry, questions usually arise when a patient receives a prescription that isn’t available at the corner drugstore.

What is a specialty pharmacy?

When a patient is diagnosed with a new, complex condition, or if a current treatment plan isn’t working, a prescription from a specialty pharmacy may be the next step.

Specialty pharmacies differ from a standard retail pharmacy in that they formulate and/or carry different classes of medications to treat complex or rare conditions. These medicines may require special handling, storage, and/or dosage instructions.

To avoid confusion or frustration, providers should explain this to patients upfront. What happens next will impact the experience for both the patient and the pharmacy.

How does it work?

Filling a prescription is more than just sorting pills into a bottle. It starts with verifying a patient’s medical history, previous treatments, allergies, and more to prevent dangerous drug interactions.

Next, the pharmacy must verify eligibility and insurance coverage to ensure timely payment following the transaction. If a prior authorization is required, it is completed by the pharmacy, and depending on the process in place, may or may not include communication with the patient. Read more >>