Med Checkup Program

Have your medicines had a checkup?

Your medicines need a yearly checkup, just like you.

To help with this checkup, each year Medica mails a labeled brown bag to members age 55 and older who are taking at least five medications daily for ongoing health conditions. Members can use this bag to bring all of their medications to their doctor at their next visit.

If you have not received this mailing but you take multiple daily medications, herbs or supplements, we encourage you to "bag" your medications and bring them to your doctor at your next visit for a review.

The importance of reviewing your medicines

Prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements help many people live longer, more active lives. When you take the right medicines in the right way, they are safe and effective tools for good health.

Yet today's medicines are powerful, and incorrect use can harm you. The more medicines you take, the greater the risk of problems. You can protect your health by participating in a medicine checkup.

What you need to do

• Schedule a "brown bag" visit with your doctor.
• When you call for an appointment, tell the scheduler that you will be bringing your medicines in for a review.
• If you already have an appointment, call the office and let the staff know that you will be bringing in your medicines.
• Before the appointment, gather all your medicines that you take regularly, including:
  • All medicine prescribed by your doctor.
  • All over-the-counter medications (for example: aspirins, cough medicine, antacids, eye drops).
  • Herbs and supplements.
• Remember to bring the medications in their original bottles or packages.
• Place the medicines in a bag and take them to your appointment.

During the appointment

• Ask your doctor to review the medicines with you and discuss what each drug or supplement does, how it is working, and whether you still need to take it.
• Tell your doctor about your health history, including any history of food, medicine, or other allergies.
• Let your doctor know if you have trouble telling your medicines apart. Also tell your doctor if you are having problems remembering when to take your medicines or how much to take.
• If you need to simplify your medicine schedule, discuss it with your doctor. Your doctor may have suggestions that better fit your lifestyle.
• Ask your doctor to write out a complete medicine schedule, with instructions on exactly when and how to take your medicines.