It’s not always easy to take medications on time. Life sometimes gets in the way of best-laid plans. One day you look at your pillbox and realize you’re a few doses behind. 

Taking your medicine as prescribed  is called medication adherence. It's important because it helps control chronic health issues, treat temporary health problems and keep you well.

Find a Solution 

If you’re having trouble taking your medications as directed, figure out why. A few common reasons derail many folks. For example, you may be: 

• Taking many prescriptions and find it hard to keep track 
• Busy and it’s not always convenient to take them
• Unsure about whether the medication is working 
• Worried about side effects 
• Having a hard time paying for them 

It’s not a good idea to take your medication differently than prescribed. You could put yourself at risk. Plus, you won’t get the full benefit of your medication. 

Get Help 

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois created a program to help our members — the Pharmacists Adding Value & Expertise^® (PAVE^®) program. Local pharmacists engage with members so they can better understand and manage their health conditions. The pharmacist works one-on-one with members to come up with a tailored plan that’s right for them. Pharmacists can help with education about medications, creating phone reminders or setting up a pillbox to help organize medications and improve adherence.

Other Tips 

What else can you do to improve your adherence?

• Know your pharmacy benefits. Go to getblueil.com/pdp/pharmacies or getblueil.com/mapd/pharmacies to find out what is covered. 
• If your medicine is too costly, ask if there is a generic choice or other option that costs less. Use Blue Cross MedicareRx (PDP)^SM or Blue Cross Medicare Advantage^SM preferred pharmacies when possible to save more. 
• If you’re having trouble with side effects, tell your doctor. There may be another medication you can take or a way to prevent side effects.
• If it’s hard to keep track of your medications, find out if there is a way to simplify the dosing schedule. You can also ask your pharmacist if they offer any kind of reminder service or if they recommend a phone app.

Your medications play a vital role in keeping you healthy. If you’re having a problem, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.  

Try to remember these three medication rights: 

• Right amount. Take the right dose each day. 
• Right time. Take your medication at the right time of day. 
• Right way. Take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. 

Source: 5 Medication Safety Tips for Older Adults,  Food and Drug Administration, 2024

Important Plan Information
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Originally published 5/10/2019; Revised 2020; 2021, 2024