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Here, patients will find valuable information and resources for compounded medications and answers to
frequently asked questions about compounding.
It is important that patients be involved in all aspects of their own health care, but that is most true for compounded medications: since your prescription will be customized specifically for you, your input and information will be crucial in the decision-making process between you, your prescriber, and your pharmacist.
But it is also important that you be aware of issues surrounding compounding. Different medical professionals have differing perspectives on the use of compounding, so your experiences and your voice must be heard.
P2C2: Patients and Professionals for Customized Care
(www.savemymedicine.org)
Free patient membership available
You have the power to protect your access to compounded medicines. P2C2 brings together people who know first-hand that compounded medicines are a critical part of modern, individualized healthcare and gives them the necessary tools to win the fight to keep their access to compounded medicines. With a free membership to P2C2, you can receive electronic updates on the latest news and information affecting compounding. You can also share your own story of how compounding helped you with others – from your local Congressional representative to your newspaper – so they know you rely on compounded medicines and that you are committed to making sure they remain available.
IACP: International Academy of Compounding Pharmacy
(www.iacprx.org)
Patients can support IACP by joining P2C2, above
Since 1991, IACP has fought to protect, promote and advance the art and skill of the compounding pharmacy profession. IACP represents more than 1,800 pharmacists, physicians, technicians and patients who are committed to practicing quality pharmacy compounding. The Food and Drug Administration, the U.S. Supreme Court, Congress, and virtually every major association of healthcare professionals have recognized the value of compounding pharmacists. Unfortunately, misguided efforts to alter the regulatory landscape threaten pharmacists' ability to practice compounding and, subsequently, physician and patient access to these medication choices. IACP is fighting in courts, in Congress and in the public arena to raise awareness of the value of compounding and to reverse these policies and maintain states’ historically established authority over the practice of compounding. IACP also acts as a referral service for patients and prescribers who would like to work with a compounding pharmacist in their area.
PCCA: Professional Compounding Centers of America
(www.pccarx.com)
Visit the “About Us” and “Patient” sections
PCCA is the nation’s complete resource for fine chemicals, equipment, devices, flavors, ACPE-accredited training and education, pharmacy software, marketing, business and pharmacy consulting assistance. The network of PCCA Member Pharmacies includes more than 3,500 independent community pharmacists in the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe and New Zealand. PCCA's mission is to strengthen the role, position and skills of member compounding pharmacists so they can meet the unique healthcare needs of patients through PCCA’s exceptional service, highest-quality products, shared innovations and education. One patient. One physician. One pharmacist. A triad relationship with a common goal: achieving a positive therapeutic outcome for the patient. And in the midst of this relationship and this common goal is PCCA, the leader in pharmacy compounding since 1981.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click each question to jump to the answer......
How do I get a compounded medication?
Patients must obtain a valid prescription from a prescriber in order to receive a compounded medication. Westchase Specialty Pharmacy is happy to work with any prescriber who is willing to listen to the patient’s needs, discuss options with our pharmacists, and support the choice of a customized medication. Patients are encouraged to visit with their prescriber about why a compounded prescription may be a better option. Also, we are happy to speak with your prescriber about what options are available. Alternatively, Westchase Specialty Pharmacy may be able to suggest a prescriber to you who already recognizes the benefits of and prescribes compounded medications.
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Should I talk to a Westchase pharmacist or my prescriber first?
You are welcome to visit Westchase Specialty Pharmacy and discuss your options for a compounded preparation either before you have seen your prescriber or after you have a prescription. Speaking with a Westchase pharmacist before you visit your prescriber may make it easier for you to discuss your options with your prescriber. Once you have a prescription, your Westchase pharmacist will consult with you to determine what type of formulation is best and collaborate with your prescriber to finalize the decision.
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When will I receive my compounded medication?
Once the prescription is decided upon, the Westchase compounders will begin working on the formulation process. How long it will take to compound your prescription will be determined by numerous factors, including availability of chemicals, the complexity of the formulation, and necessary Quality Control measures. You will receive a phone call when your prescription is ready to be dispensed.
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How will I receive my compounded medication?
Westchase Specialty Pharmacy is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm, but is open by appointment only during lunch (12 to 1 pm). You may visit Westchase at your convenience to not only pick up your medication, but also to speak with your pharmacist about the best way to use the medication and get the answers to any questions you might have. Some prescriptions can be shipped to the patient for an additional charge.
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Can I have my traditional, non-compounded prescriptions filled at Westchase Specialty Pharmacy, too?
Westchase Specialty Pharmacy focuses on compounded prescriptions and does not dispense commercially-available medicines. We are happy to refer you to nearby traditional pharmacies with whom we have partnered to fill those dispensing needs.
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Will my prescription insurance cover my compounded medication?
Prescription insurance coverage does include compounded medications in most cases. Since coverage of compounds varies from one plan to the next, you should speak with your benefits provider to learn the extent of your own plan’s coverage. Your Westchase pharmacist will provide you with the necessary paperwork and information that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.
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If you have any other questions, please click here to visit the “Contact Westchase” page.
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