Expert: Mary E Scott, RPh, CGP - 5/15/2007

Question
Mary.   I have been hearing much about special pharmacists who sit down with a client, go over ALL medications the client is taking, and discern whether any are conflicting with others, or make suggestions of substitute medications that would work better, as well as, or are cheaper than ones being currently prescribed by the PSP.   Do you know of an online link where I might locate such a specialist in my area?  Newaygo County Michigan.
Deb

Answer
Hi,Deb!
The American Society of Consultant Pharmacists website (www.ascp.com) has a referral service. It links people with consultant pharmacists who are certified geriatric pharmacists (CGP) in their area to do medication counseling.
I am a consultant pharmacist listed on the service,and as far as I know, the only one in your area ( I live in Sparta).
I haven't been doing individual counseling since I work part-time for a nursing home company,but I would be happy to meet with you and work something out.
Usually I would have you fill out a medication history form,listing all meds,herbal supplement,medical conditions.
I would work with your physician to make sure lab tests were or need to be done,depending on the meds you are on,etc
Some pharmacists directly bill to Medicare Part D or your insurance company,but since I don't do this on a regular basis, you would have to pay me,then submit to your health insurance. If this is something you would be interested in, let me know. We can meet at your house or someplace else.  Mary Scott,RPh,CGP