In Calgary, the importance of medication reviews is growing rapidly as more people rely on prescription drugs for chronic conditions, acute illnesses, and preventive healthcare. A medication review is a thorough evaluation of all the medications a patient is taking, conducted by a qualified healthcare professional—typically a pharmacist or physician. In this article, we’ll explore why medication reviews in Calgary are vital, how they work, their benefits, and how to access them locally.
What is a Medication Review?
A medication review is a structured consultation that involves:
Reviewing all prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Checking for drug interactions and side effects.
Assessing medication effectiveness and adherence.
Providing recommendations for adjustments if needed.
Ensuring the patient understands how and why they are taking each medication.
These reviews are especially valuable for individuals with complex medication regimens, seniors, those with multiple chronic conditions, and anyone starting a new medication.
Why Medication Reviews Are Important
Medication reviews are essential for several reasons:
1. Preventing Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs)
Many hospital admissions in Canada are due to adverse drug reactions. In Calgary, pharmacists are trained to identify potential problems before they escalate into emergencies.
2. Improving Medication Adherence
Non-adherence—when patients don’t take medications as prescribed—can lead to poor health outcomes. A pharmacist-led review can uncover the reasons behind non-adherence and offer practical solutions.
3. Optimizing Therapy
Sometimes, people take medications that no longer serve a purpose or could be replaced with safer or more effective alternatives. A review ensures the patient is on the right treatment plan.
4. Cost Efficiency
By discontinuing unnecessary or duplicate medications, patients can save money while maintaining or improving their health.
Who Should Get a Medication Review in Calgary?
If you live in Calgary and meet any of the following conditions, a medication review is highly recommended:
You take multiple medications (polypharmacy).
You have chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease.
You recently experienced hospitalization or a major health change.
You are a senior.
You take over-the-counter supplements along with prescriptions.
You have concerns about side effects or drug interactions.
Types of Medication Reviews Available in Calgary
There are several different formats of medication reviews provided across Calgary:
1. Basic Medication Review (BMR)
Ideal for individuals on a small number of medications. It includes a brief consultation with a pharmacist.
2. Comprehensive Medication Review (CMR)
A more in-depth review, usually for people on five or more medications. The pharmacist reviews your entire medication list, creates a medication action plan, and communicates with your healthcare team.
3. Medication Therapy Management (MTM)
This is often a series of reviews and follow-ups, focusing on optimizing medication therapy over time.
4. Disease-Specific Reviews
Some Calgary pharmacies offer reviews focused on conditions like diabetes, asthma, or mental health.
Benefits of Medication Reviews in Calgary
Let’s look at how these services benefit Calgarians:
A. Enhanced Safety
Pharmacists can detect duplicate therapies, expired medications, or combinations that may cause harmful interactions.
B. Empowered Patients
Education is a big part of the review. Patients walk away with a better understanding of their treatments.
C. Streamlined Medication Regimens
Many patients are able to reduce the number of medications they take, simplifying their routines.
D. Better Communication
Medication reviews encourage collaboration between pharmacists, doctors, and other healthcare providers.
How to Book a Medication Review in Calgary
Booking a medication review in Calgary is straightforward. Here’s how:
1. Visit Your Local Pharmacy
Many pharmacies in Calgary offer this service for free or at a minimal cost. You can simply call or walk in to make an appointment.
2. Speak with Your Pharmacist
Some pharmacists proactively offer reviews when they notice changes in your prescription history.
3. Online Booking
Some Calgary pharmacies allow you to book medication reviews online through their websites.
4. Ask Your Doctor
Physicians may refer patients for reviews, especially after hospitalization or when starting a new treatment plan.
Calgary Pharmacies Offering Medication Review Services
Here are some trusted Calgary pharmacies where you can access medication reviews:
1. Kinsol Pharmacy (Calgary NE)
Located in Calgary’s northeast, Kinsol Pharmacy offers personalized medication review services, helping patients manage chronic conditions more effectively.
2. Shoppers Drug Mart
With locations all over Calgary, Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacists are well-trained in medication management and reviews.
3. London Drugs
This chain offers comprehensive medication therapy reviews, often covered by insurance plans.
4. Rexall
Rexall pharmacists in Calgary provide MTM services that include medication reviews, especially for seniors.
5. Independent Pharmacies
Many local and community pharmacies across Calgary offer excellent, personalized service.
What to Bring to Your Medication Review
To make the most of your appointment, bring:
A complete list of all medications.
Bottles or blister packs of current prescriptions.
Any over-the-counter medications or supplements.
Recent lab results or medical records (if available).
A list of questions or concerns.
Questions to Ask During Your Medication Review
Prepare a list of questions such as:
Why am I taking this medication?
What are the possible side effects?
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make?
Is there a less expensive or more effective alternative?
Role of Pharmacists in Calgary Medication Reviews
Pharmacists in Calgary are more than dispensers of medication. They play a vital role in:
Monitoring medication effectiveness.
Coordinating with physicians.
Educating patients on usage, side effects, and safety.
Ensuring proper documentation and follow-up.
In Alberta, pharmacists are highly trained and can even prescribe medications for minor ailments, making them crucial to the healthcare system.
Coverage and Cost of Medication Reviews in Calgary
Most basic and comprehensive medication reviews are covered by Alberta Health for eligible individuals. Some private insurance plans may also cover more in-depth or follow-up sessions.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Medication Review
Be Honest: Share if you’ve stopped taking any medications or if you’re taking herbal remedies.
Take Notes: Bring a notebook or ask the pharmacist to print a summary.
Schedule Regular Reviews: Annual or semi-annual reviews are ideal.
Include Family: Having a caregiver or family member with you can help with communication and memory.
Final Thoughts: The Importance of Medication Reviews in Calgary
In a city like Calgary, where the population is growing and aging, medication reviews are a cornerstone of preventive and personalized healthcare. Whether you’re managing multiple chronic conditions or simply want to ensure your medications are safe and effective, a professional review can dramatically improve your health outcomes.
If you haven’t had a medication review recently, contact your local Calgary pharmacy today and schedule an appointment. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.
