Medication Adherence: A Letter to Patients

Author

Millennium Physician Group- FL

For more information about the author, click to view their website: https://millenniumphysician.com/

Posted on

Jul 12, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This

A LETTER TO PATIENTS FROM MILLENNIUM’S DIRECTOR OF VALUE-BASED PHARMACY

Dear Valued Patients,  

Taking your medications as prescribed is an important step in preventing complications from your chronic health conditions. Complications from diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can be severe and may even increase your risk of hospitalization and poor health. That’s why your care team at Millennium Physician Group is dedicated to optimizing your medication regimens on a regular basis.  

According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately one in five new prescriptions are never filled, and among those filled approximately 50% are taken incorrectly, particularly with regard to timing, dosage, frequency, and duration. We know it can be easy to get off track, especially if you’re managing multiple medications each day. At each visit, your provider will go over all the prescription medications you take. You may find it helpful to bring ALL your medication bottles (including those “over the counter”) with you to the appointment to get the most out of this conversation. We encourage you to talk to your physician and care team during and in between appointments about ANY concerns that you may have with your medications.  

COMMON BARRIERS INCLUDE:

  • Forgetfulness 
  • Side effect concerns 
  • Cost 
  • Transportation 
  • Refill request delays  
  • Feeling like you have too many medications or too many doses per day 
  • Feeling like your medication is not needed or is not helping  
  • Not knowing why you take it and how – not following the label directions 

TIPS TO STAY ON TRACK:

  • Get organized with a pill box  
  • Set pill reminders 
  • Request/accept family/caregiver support 
  • Seek peer support 
  • Take advantage of important services available at your pharmacy: 
    • Pharmacist consultation 
    • 90/100-day supplies for your long-term medications 
    • Automatic refill – avoid gaps in medication 
    • Refill reminders  
    • Mail order or delivery  
    • Digital notifications  
    • Early refills for travel or weather emergencies 

Remember, medication adherence barriers are common, and thereno one-size-fits-all solution. Our providers and care teams are dedicated to listening to your concerns and finding a medication regimen that meets your individual needs. We also have a team of clinical pharmacy professionals working behind the scenes to monitor and support this goal. For most chronic drug therapies, a minimum of 80% adherence is needed to achieve the most clinical benefit. That means that even missing your medication two out of seven days per week may decrease the effectiveness. 

SUCCESS STORY

One of our clinical pharmacists recently reached out to a patient who was significantly overdue in refilling his Rosuvastatin, an important medication used to lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke. The patient expressed multiple barriers he faced with taking his medication as prescribed. He shared that he often forgot to take it and would also occasionally skip his dose on purpose due to side effects. He also admitted he wasn’t quite sure why he was taking it in the first place. The pharmacist reviewed the purpose of the medication and emphasized the importance of adherence, drawing on the mutual goal of preventing a second heart attack. She also worked with his primary-care provider to adjust the dose of the medication as well as recommended a pill box on his kitchen counter and a dose reminder system to get him back on track. The patient also took advantage of 90-day supplies covered by his drug plan to decrease the number of trips he would need to take to the pharmacy throughout the year. All of these solutions combined put that patient one step closer to achieving his best possible health outcome.   

This is just one example of a medication adherence success story within Millennium Physician Group. If you are experiencing barriers to taking your medications as prescribed don’t wait for your next scheduled office visit. Connect with your physician and care team today. Millennium Physician Group… Your connection to a healthier life.  

Brittany Orr, PharmD, BCACP Director of Value-Based Pharmacy Millennium Physician Group 

Other Articles You May Like

Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Services Offers Advice for Rekindling Purpose and Joy After the Holidays

Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Services Offers Advice for Rekindling Purpose and Joy After the HolidaysSeniors Helping Seniors owners C.J. Girod and Travis Hudson are placing a spotlight on advice and insights for how seniors can find meaningful ways to stay engaged and motivated in the new year.Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, a franchisor with over 115 franchise partners and more than 300 territories nationwide, has grown rapidly in recent years. The company attributes its success to its skilled team of caregivers who foster meaningful connections with their senior care receivers. While the holiday season is often filled with joy and activity, the weeks that follow can be particularly challenging.According to a study by the American Psychological Association, 89% of U.S. adults report feeling the holiday blues. For older adults, this emotional slump can be even more pronounced. The shift from the holiday seasons energy to a quieter, more isolated period can lead to sadness and make it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle.After the excitement of the holidays, it can be especially tough for seniors to stay active, particularly in colder climates, said C.J. Girod, President of Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA, which serves southern Allegheny County and northern Washington County. We see every year how the post-holiday season can bring unique challenges for our elderly friends, family and neighbors.The key to staying active once the holidays have passed is to find meaningful ways to stay engaged and motivated as the new year begins, said Travis Hudson, Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors Pittsburgh Northeast, which serves northern and eastern Allegheny County and western Westmoreland County.We work closely with our senior care receivers and their families to cultivate routines and activities that inspire a sense of purpose and fulfillment throughout the year, but especially during the holiday season, Girod and Hudson said.Some of Girods and Hudsons tips for seniors looking to shake off the post-holiday doldrums include:Set small goals for the new year.Maintain social connections.Stay physically active.Look for opportunities to volunteer.Create a cozy, positive environment.Seniors Helping Seniors in-home services has grown rapidly in recent years, extending its reach into more than 30 U.S. states as well as international markets.Seniors Helping Seniors services stand out from other brands in the elder care space partly through its commitment to hiring senior caregivers, which provides employment opportunities for seniors and better cultivates meaningful relationships between caregivers and care receivers.What I truly appreciate about working with Seniors Helping Seniors network is that its commitment to improving health and well-being goes beyond just our clients, Girod said. Our whole team is deeply committed to making a positive difference in the community as a whole, and we are always looking for new opportunities to offer support and care to those who need it most, said Hudson.Caregivers are at the core of what we do, and their work is essential to the health and happiness of so many people around the world, said Seniors Helping Seniors President Namrata Yocom-Jan. Nearly half of all caregivers in the U.S. are over 50 and face their own health challenges. Thats why Seniors Helping Seniors in-home service prioritizes hiring caregivers over the age of 65 and provides comprehensive support to promote their mental, physical and emotional well-being.Over the past 25 years, weve put a lot of work into ensuring that Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care is not only the best option for our seniors but also for caregivers across the country, Yocom-Jan said. Thats something we are extremely proud of, but its not something we take for granted. We will continue to make sure anyone who has the passion and skills to be a great caregiver will find a great opportunity to grow and make an impact with Seniors Helping Seniors services. Our caregivers truly have a way to give and to receive.For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care, visit seniorshelpingseniors.com.

The Best Bathroom Paint Colors for 2025

The Best Bathroom Paint Colors For 2025If you love using color in your home, 2025 is the year for youespecially when it comes to bathroom paint color trends. The timeless, gleaming white bathroom aesthetic has competition this year as bold colors are at the top of every top trend list. Ranging from warm peach to luxurious jewel tones, rich color is finding its way onto bathroom walls, cabinetry and accessories. However, that does not mean neutrals are dead far from it. This years crop of color trends truly offers something for every taste.Despite the plethora of options, choosing bathroom paint colors does not have to be difficult. To keep yourself from being swept up in the many paint options and bathroom color ideas that you see online, it is helpful to start by thinking about color in terms of style: trendy, traditional or timelessness. This guide will help you select the best bathroom paint colors for your homes style and your personal taste.How to choose a bathroom paint color? Start with your style.Staying true to your style is important when choosing paint colors: straying too far from your preferences could lead to a less satisfying result. Thinking about your style as you make your color choices will help you find the right shade for your home and your family. Let us start by describing the key style categories, and what each means when it comes to bathroom designs and colors: Trendy: Trendy bathroom color ideas and designs are circulated widely on social media as well as in interior design blogs and magazines. Trendsetters re-think fixtures, finishes and color schemes, providing fresh ideas and inspiration for your project. Alternative metals, innovative features and new colors are the hallmarks of the trendsetting style. Traditional: Traditional bathroom styles feature neutral palettes, polished brass or chrome fixtures, wood cabinetry and natural (or natural-looking) stone counters. While white linens are the traditional choice, the neutral colors of the traditional palette are flexible, enabling you to inject added color into the room with bright artwork or colorful linens. Timeless: Timeless style is simple and balanced and allows you to make simple modifications to update the look of a room. The clean white bathroom is a classic example of a timeless look. Crisp white tile, cabinetry and fixtures do not go out of style and are easy to accessorize. The top bathroom paint colors for 2025There is something for every style, aesthetic and personal taste among this years color trends. Whether you are planning an all-out, maximalist remodel or prefer your bathroom to be a soothing oasis, 2025s color trends offer everything from bold hues to a fresh look at calming neutrals.A peachy pick is the top color trendA good place to start when it comes to bathroom paint color choices is the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year, a soft peach shade aptly named Peach Fuzz that is setting the tone for current color trends. Unlike recent years which featured intense shades of fuchsia, periwinkle and yellow, Peach Fuzz ushers in a range of livable, sophisticated colors that nod toward nature and complement the increasing popularity of natural-looking stone and wood accents.One word about on-trend colors: you do not have to stick to the exact shade or palette! Feel free to interpret the trends according to your personal taste. Peach Fuzz, for example, sits between pink and orange on the color wheel and can be easily nudged in either direction, toward terra cotta for an earthier feel, or toward pink shades which are infinitely flexible and flattering.Shades of peach and apricot also pair beautifully with white, neutrals and with the next trend category: jewel tones.Vibrant jewel tones are back in styleWhite-on-white bathrooms and kitchens have been on trend for years and are always timeless. However, for 2025, bold color makes its return. Rich jewel tonesdeep emerald, rich topaz, dark sapphire, dusky ruby and velvety dark shades of plumare being seen on bathroom walls, cabinetry and accessories.These vibrant hues stand in stark contrast to the neutral palettes that have been popular for the last several years. Whether used as accent colors or as the focal point of a design, jewel tones can stand alone or play well with neutral colors.Spa-like neutrals define in-home retreatsWhile strong colors are making the headlines for current bathroom color trends, that does not mean that neutral palettes are out of favor. Warm and soothing shades of beige and taupe are fresh choices for those seeking a more tranquil and traditional bathroom look.When thinking about a neutral palette, do not be afraid to look at darker neutral shades. Mid-brown shades of taupe, for example, can be striking when paired with white for a tailored look, or provide a soft background for other accent colors.Which bathroom color trend is right for you?The current years trends offer a multitude of color options and interpretations for every style. To help ensure you are happy with your color choice, keep the following tips in mind: Always test the paint color in the room you are going to paint. Colors can look vastly different on a swatch or in a store than they do on your bathroom walls. Always test a small area first. Do not ignore your lighting. Lighting dramatically affects how a paint color looks in a room. Natural light can make colors appear differently than artificial light. Not considering how the color will look in your bathrooms lighting conditions can lead to unexpected results. Consider the size of the bathroom you are painting. Using dark or very bold colors in a small bathroom can make the space feel cramped and smaller than it is. While these colors can be striking, it is important to use them wisely in smaller spaces. (More on picking paint colors for small bathrooms is below!) Do not forget the paint finish and moisture resistance. Choosing a moisture-resistant paint is the first order of business when it comes to painting your bathroom. However, the finish of the paint (gloss, semi-gloss, matte) can also have a significant impact. Glossy finishes are easier to clean, for example, but they also highlight any imperfections in the walls. Matte finishes, on the other hand, can be easily spotted if splashed with water. Small bathroom paint color tipsWhat is the best color for a small bathroom?  The answer depends on a few things, from the lighting in the room to (as always!) your own taste. When choosing a color for a small bathroom, several factors should be taken into account to make the space feel welcoming and avoid feeling claustrophobic. Here are some key things to keep in mind: Light colors: Lighter colors can make a room feel more spacious. Soft whites, neutrals and pastels can brighten up the space and give an illusion of it being larger than it is. You can interpret color trends by using a lighter shade of a bold color on the walls and using a darker shade sparingly in accents or accessories. Cool tones: Cool blues and greens can create a calming and refreshing ambiance in a small space, and they often reflect light better, contributing to a more open feel. Consistent or monochromatic color scheme: Using a consistent or even monochromatic color palette can help the space feel unified and expansive. If you choose to have multiple colors, make sure they complement each other and keep contrasting colors to a minimum. Accent wall: An accent wall can be a terrific way to use color strategically in a smaller room. Painting one wall in a bolder or darker shade can add depth without overwhelming the space with a dark color. The right color can transform your bathroom, turning it into a sanctuary or highlighting beautiful design and materials. Whether your style is trendy, traditional or timeless, this years color trends offer beautiful options for all baths, regardless of size. Keep our tips in mind, and if you need more ideas, schedule a free bathroom design consultation with one of our professionals.  Schedule a free, in-home design consultation today with your Local Re-Bath location at 251-220-9284. Servicing Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe & Washington counties in Alabama.

Easing Senior Isolation After the Winter Holidays

Helen, a vibrant 78-year-old who thrives in the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season, hosts gatherings and participates in longstanding family traditions. Come January, the sudden silence of her home, now void of guests and decorations, can feel overwhelming. This abrupt shift from constant social interaction to minimal contact is one of the main reasons seniors feel lonely after the holidays. Helens situation is, sadly, very common. The winter holidays bring a flurry of activity and companionship that can brighten seniors lives, whether they live alone or in a senior living community. But once the decorations are packed away and families return to their routines, a stark quiet can settle in, leaving many seniors feeling isolated. The contrast can be jarring.Why Post-Holiday Loneliness OccursSocial interaction drops off: During the holidays, older adults often experience an increase in social contactvisits from family and friends, holiday parties, and community events. Once the festivities end, the sudden drop in social interaction can feel particularly stark, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): The winter months bring shorter days and longer nights, especially when winters are coldcan lead to seasonal affective disorder or winter blues, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and sadness.Physical challenges: Cold weather can also limit an older adults mobility, making it difficult for them to leave home and engage with others.Reflection and remembrance: The holidays can also be a time of reflection, where older adults may reminisce about past holidays and loved ones or friends who are no longer present. Even during the holidays, these memories can contribute to feelings of loneliness.Coping Strategies for Seniors Compare Helens story to that of David, a retired teacher who lives in a senior community. His family lives across the country, and visits are infrequent. Although he sometimes does not see his family during the winter holidays, David has found new sources of purpose and community throughout the year. He volunteers at the local library and participates in the community garden, activities that keep him connected and engaged all year long.For older adults, maintaining a regular schedule of social contacts like that can be incredibly beneficial. Engaging in regular activities, even simple ones like joining a book club, attending a craft workshop, or simply having a scheduled weekly phone call with family, can make a big difference. Here are more tips:         Use technology. Technology can help bridge the gap, especially for family members who live far away. Video calls, social media, and even online games can provide interaction.         Schedule regular activities. Many senior centers and communities offer regular programming. If you have hobbies that you typically do independently, like reading, crafts, or gardening, consider inviting a friend to enjoy them with you.          Look for volunteer work. Volunteering can be an excellent way for seniors to feel connected and purposeful, which are key to combating loneliness. Start with your personal knowledge or interestsfor example, avid readers could consider volunteering at a local library.         Consider getting professional help for mental health. Be honest with yourself about your mental health. You could start by asking your primary health care provider for advice or a referral. Unchecked loneliness and isolation can ultimately affect your physical health and well-being.How Family and Friends Can Help Older Adults1. Make regular visits or stay in touch. Make a concerted effort to visit or communicate regularly with the senior in your life. Something as simple as a daily text or phone call can make a big difference. 2. Plan post-holiday visits. Consider scheduling a visit in January or February, which can give your older loved one something to anticipate after the holidays wind down. 3. Involve them in planning. Encourage your older loved one to help plan that post-holiday visit or other gatherings or events. Planning can help fill their hours and get them talking with you or others. 4. Watch for signs of depression. Signs of depression or severe loneliness could include changes in appetite, sleep, or general disinterest in life. Early intervention is key in managing these issues. 5. Talk to your older loved one about in-home caregivers. Right at Home offers companion care, in which our caregivers provide important social interaction while also helping with tasks at home or elsewhere.Understanding the reasons behind post-holiday loneliness and taking proactive steps to counteract it can help ensure that seniors feel connected, valued, and cared for all year round. By weaving a safety net of family, friends, activities, and professional support, we can help diminish the quiet that comes after the festive season and foster a year full of meaningful connections. Article by Right at Home in Fort Collins. Please call 970-494-1111 with any questions.

Local Services By This Author

Millennium Physician Group

Primary Care Providers for Seniors 6321 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers, Florida, 33912

Millennium Physician Group is a leading provider of comprehensive healthcare services in Florida. With a network of over 400 healthcare providers, we are committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care to our patients. Our team includes primary care physicians, specialists, and advanced practitioners who work together to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.At Millennium Physician Group, we offer a wide range of services, including primary care, cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, and more. Whether you need routine preventive care or treatment for a complex medical condition, our team is here to help. We also offer telehealth services, allowing you to access care from the comfort of your home.With locations across Florida, including Fort Myers, Naples, and Port Charlotte, we strive to make healthcare convenient and accessible for our patients. Our goal is to help you live a healthier life and achieve your wellness goals. Visit our website to learn more about our services and find a location near you.

Millennium Physician Group

Primary Care Providers for Seniors 19531 Cochran Blvd, Port Charlotte, Florida, 33948

Millennium Physician Group, established in Port Charlotte, Florida, in 2008 and now headquartered in Fort Myers, has emerged as the premier independent physician group in the Southeast, boasting a network of over 800 healthcare providers. Our commitment to delivering exceptional care is reflected in our comprehensive range of services, which span primary care, specialty care, walk-in centers, radiology and lab services, physician therapy, telehealth, wellness programs, home health, hospital care, and more.At Millennium Physician Group, we prioritize a patient-centric approach, striving to create a truly connected healthcare experience for individuals across the region. Our philosophy is rooted in value-based care, and we consistently engage our physicians to ensure the highest standards of quality and service. By offering a coordinated and comprehensive continuum of care, we aim to be Your Connection to a Healthier Life.With a dedication to excellence and a commitment to innovation, Millennium Physician Group continues to set the standard for healthcare delivery in the Southeast. We are honored to serve our communities and remain steadfast in our mission to improve the health and well-being of every patient we have the privilege to care for.To see a full list of locations near your, please Click Here

Millennium Physician Group

Physicians 19531 Cochran Blvd, Port Charlotte, Florida, 33948

Millennium Physician Group, established in Port Charlotte, Florida, in 2008 and now headquartered in Fort Myers, has emerged as the premier independent physician group in the Southeast, boasting a network of over 800 healthcare providers. Our commitment to delivering exceptional care is reflected in our comprehensive range of services, which span primary care, specialty care, walk-in centers, radiology and lab services, physician therapy, telehealth, wellness programs, home health, hospital care, and more.At Millennium Physician Group, we prioritize a patient-centric approach, striving to create a truly connected healthcare experience for individuals across the region. Our philosophy is rooted in value-based care, and we consistently engage our physicians to ensure the highest standards of quality and service. By offering a coordinated and comprehensive continuum of care, we aim to be Your Connection to a Healthier Life.With a dedication to excellence and a commitment to innovation, Millennium Physician Group continues to set the standard for healthcare delivery in the Southeast. We are honored to serve our communities and remain steadfast in our mission to improve the health and well-being of every patient we have the privilege to care for.To see a full list of locations near your, please Click Here