Taking the correct medication, at the correct time, at the correct dosage, can be more confusing and challenging than it seems. With medications that change frequently or medications that may interact with each other, it is important to have someone watching out for you.
When working with a private caregiver referred by Abby Services they can assist with medication reminders as directed and notify families if they have any concerns. The private caregivers referred by Abby Services can not administer medications. Often clients ask, “Why not, it’s not rocket science”?
While seemingly simple, administering medications requires knowledge of the medications, their potential interactions, and possible side effects. These are areas not covered in HHA & CNA (Caregiver training). They are areas covered for skilled nurses however often having a skilled nurse manage your medications is not cost efficient. The liability for a private caregiver providing home care can be significant.
Rates for a private skilled nursing visit can range from $50-$150 or more per visit. Even when using a skilled nurse to help with medication management errors can still happen.
It is for that reason we typically recommend a medication service provided by a local pharmacy and many other independent pharmacies. These services are designed to help increase medication compliance for patients with even the most complex regimens. Using a medication setup service medications are managed by a pharmacist and delivered to you. The pharmacist handles dosing in an easily manageable format similar to a traditional medication box. Using this system saves money over an expensive skilled nursing visit, limits the potential for errors, and provides clients with the flexibility and freedom they want and need when requesting in-home care.
Here is a link to Cypress Pharmacy in Fort Myers. They are just one option for this medication packaging service that can help our clients maintain their independence.