Picking up a prescription may only take a few minutes but understanding how to use that medication safely can have a much bigger impact on your health.

That is where pharmacists come in.

During American Pharmacists Month, Concho County Hospital is recognizing the important role our pharmacists at CCH Pharmacy play in helping patients understand their medications, avoid potential problems, and stay connected to the treatment they need.

“Having pharmacy services close by is not only convenient for the people in our community. It’s also a place where you can talk to a real person rather than depending on less-than-reliable searches online,” said Robert Pascasio, CEO of Concho County Hospital District. “The investment by the hospital in a strong pharmacy is intentional to provide that connection to a real person with real experience and expertise.”

At CCH Pharmacy, support is available right here at home.

How and when should I take this medication?

A prescription label provides important instructions, but patients often have additional questions.

Should the medication be taken with food? Does it need to be taken at the same time every day? What should you do if you miss a dose?

Your pharmacist can explain how to take a medication properly and help clarify instructions before you leave the pharmacy.

That conversation can be especially useful when you are starting a new prescription or taking several medications at the same time.

Could this medication interact with something else I take?

Over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, and other medications can sometimes affect how medicines work. Pharmacists are trained to review medications for potential interactions and help patients understand when additional precautions may be necessary.

Keeping an up-to-date list of everything you take — and sharing it with your healthcare team — can make those conversations more useful.

What side effects should I know about?

Many medications can cause side effects, but not every side effect requires the same response.

A pharmacist can explain commonly expected effects, provide guidance for managing certain minor concerns, and help you understand when a symptom may warrant contacting your healthcare professional or seeking medical attention.

If something does not seem right after starting a medication, ask rather than guessing.

What are my options if I have trouble getting my medication?

Medication only works when patients can access it.

CCH Pharmacy offers several services designed to make prescription access easier for patients in the area. The pharmacy accepts prescriptions from outside providers, offers online prescription management, and generally provides same-day pickup for prescriptions when possible.

CCH Pharmacy also provides prescription delivery to Menard County on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

For qualifying patients, participation in the 340B Drug Pricing Program may also help reduce the cost of certain prescriptions.

If cost, transportation, refills, or another barrier is making it difficult to stay on a medication, talk with the pharmacy team about what options may be available.

Is it time for a refill?

Running out of a medication used to manage a chronic condition can derail treatment and cause complications.

Keeping track of refill dates and requesting medications before the last dose can help prevent unnecessary gaps. CCH Pharmacy’s online prescription management tools can make it easier to request and manage refills.

If you are unsure whether a prescription still has refills available, the pharmacy team can help.

Make the Team at CCH Pharmacy Part of the Conversation

Pharmacists do much more than dispense medication.

They are accessible healthcare professionals who can answer questions, reinforce instructions from other members of your care team, identify potential medication concerns, and help you better understand your treatment.

This American Pharmacists Month, Concho County Hospital encourages patients to take advantage of that expertise.

The next time you pick up a prescription, don’t leave an unanswered question.

CCH Pharmacy is located at Concho County Hospital. To speak with the pharmacy team, request a prescription, or learn more about available services, call 325-869-8760.