How do I manage multiple prescriptions and test advice from different specialists?

Introduction:

Often, we find ourselves referred to several specialists at the same time or after dealing with one ailment. For instance, as a cardiac patient, you may also experience issues with your digestive system or encounter other complications, resulting in dealing with multiple prescriptions and treatments at the same time. Feeling confused in such situations is normal, and it is important to ensure that the treatments do not conflict or interfere with each other. For instance, a new diagnostic test may require you to pause blood thinners for a few days; it is essential to get clearance from your cardiologist before doing so.

Some tips to help you manage multiple prescriptions:

• Maintain an updated health file: Organise your medical documents like prescriptions, test results, surgeries, and treatments in one single folder, date-wise in chronological order. Keep a summary of your medical history and all the medications you are currently taking. Use digital health apps to store and access this information easily. Ensure you show these to any new doctor/specialist that you are consulting.

  
• Coordination between your healthcare providers: Make sure the physicians are aware of your medical history, past treatments, and medications. It helps make coordinated decisions and minimises the risk of conflicting interventions. You may insist on connecting the specialist to jointly review the treatment plan.

  
• Primary care physician: You may want your family doctor or the physician treating your most serious ailment to be your lead doctor to resolve potential conflicts between specialist prescriptions. For example, if you have had cardiac issues, you may have your cardiologist as your primary physician. For those on five or more drugs, regular consultations can reduce errors by 30%, especially for elderly patients.

  
• Understand your medications: Take time to learn the purpose of each medicine, its possible side effects, and how it may interact with other drugs. If unclear, seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist.
• Medication management: Create a medication schedule that includes the names of medications, dosage instructions, and timing. Use day-of-the-week pill sorters or digital apps for scheduling; set reminders and keep a refill calendar. Separate medicines that are required regularly (e.g., BP, cardiac) from medicines prescribed for temporary illnesses. For elderly or polypharmacy patients, error risk increases by 38%; involve pharmacists for interaction checks.

  
• Buy all medicines from one pharmacy: If you use one pharmacy for all your prescriptions, they can keep stock and track your supply. They may also caution you in case they spot any potential conflicts.

  

Stay informed about your health, seek second opinions on treatments or medications if needed, and regularly review and adjust your treatment plan with your healthcare team.