FAQ
Listed below, in question/answer format, is information on topics of interest to PharMerica customers and non-customers alike. Check back soon. We feature new topics with useful information every quarter.
What is a long-term care pharmacy and what does it do?
In simple terms, a long-term care pharmacy is an off-site independent pharmacy that dispenses medications to and oversees the pharmaceutical practices of long-term care facilities. Most long-term care facilities utilize a specialty pharmacy like PharMerica to handle all the medication dispensing and drug regimen reviews for their residents. PharMerica is considered a comprehensive long-term care pharmacy, which means the reliable, on-time delivery of safe, cost-effective medications is the first in an extensive menu of services designed to help facilities control costs, meet standards of compliance and address the unique needs of specific patient populations. Institutional pharmacies like PharMerica focus only on serving very specialized patient groups. Unlike retail pharmacies, they are not open to the public and do not sell or provide sundry items such as cosmetics, food and magazines.
How does PharMerica handle basic pharmacy dispensing?
When we receive an order, PharMerica's systems automatically screen for patient allergies and potential reactions with other medications and duplicate therapies. Where possible, our pharmacists substitute lower-cost generic equivalents. Each prescription is checked multiple times before delivery to ensure that the correct dosage of the right medication is provided and properly packaged for efficient, error-free administration. We assign each prescription a barcode to facilitate tracking every order, from beginning to end, both manually and electronically. Medications are delivered on schedule at least once each day. Emergency orders are filled and delivered immediately, day or night. Our long-term care pharmacies are open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.
What is the purpose of PharMerica's consulting services?
Our consulting program, known as ConsultPro, helps to ensure facilities' fiscal and operational integrity through a variety of specific services directed toward advancing patient outcomes, enhancing patient care, controlling costs and maintaining compliance. As part of ConsultPro, our consultant pharmacists undergo rigorous training to deliver specialized expertise in geriatric pharmacy care. These consultants visit customer facilities regularly to review every resident's medication chart, assure appropriateness of drug regimens, identify opportunities for cost savings and help facilities meet government regulations.
How does PharMerica use technology?
We use technology to create innovative solutions that address practical issues facilities face daily. Our focus is on designing tools that save time and money, improve accuracy, streamline operations and increase accountability. We insist that they be customer-friendly and easy to use. And as with everything else we do, technological applications only work if they satisfy our customers and enhance the quality of resident care. (Check out our innovative solutions to Medication Management, Clinical Management, Education and Billing.)
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