The country is facing unprecedented challenges in many ways. The current social distancing rules and stay-at-home guidelines have people considering new ways to deal with their medical needs, and the needs of their loved ones.
If you are someone who relies upon daily medication, you may be worried about running out of what you require to stay healthy. However, both local communities and governmental agencies have been working hard to ensure that you have access to your prescriptions and medications.
If you take regular medication, whether prescription or over the counter, here are some ideas to make sure that you have what you need.
- Stock Up: Instead of waiting to replenish the over-the-counter medications which you rely on, plan on picking up a bottle or two each time you go grocery shopping. This will allow you to minimize the trips you need to take out of the house, and will build up a stock of what you need. If at some point in the future shopping becomes more difficult or supplies run out, you can feel confident that you won’t be missing these medications.
- Speak with Your Doctor: Speak with your doctor regarding the possibility of getting extra medication. If it is allowed by law, you may be able to get a prescription for more than the normal amount of your medication to minimize the number of times you need to go pick it up. Another option is to ask your doctor about tele-health options, which is allowing doctors to write prescriptions and authorize refills without an office visit being necessary.
- Take Advantage of Delivery Services: Many local pharmacies and grocery stores are now offering additional services which include home delivery, drive up window services, and parking lot pickup. These services may allow you to get your medication (or send someone to pick it up for you) without getting out of the car and encountering too many other people.
- Search the Internet: In some areas, you may not be able to find exactly what you need, whether over-the-counter drugs or other medical supplies. However, there are many online shopping opportunities which will allow you to stock up and obtain delivery to your front door. In fact, online shopping is a great alternative for all types of items you may need during this crisis, from household needs to vitamins and more.
If you are immunocompromised or otherwise worried about your health because of underlying conditions, do not be afraid to reach out for help. Call friends, neighbors of family members to do your shopping for you, or to run errands on your behalf.
Stress can actually cause your immune system to weaken and make it easier to get sick- so try not to let this situation get to you. Speak frequently with loved ones, allow them to help, and ask your doctor how he can ensure that you’ll have what you need.
Anderson & Associates Insurance Group is proud to serve the Palmetto, Bradenton and Sarasota area with quality health insurance products. Should you have any questions at this time, we are happy to help.
