Takeaway
Remind patients that pharmacists are medication experts ready to answer questions—no appointment needed. Pharmacists can help ensure medications are taken correctly, check for dangerous interactions, explain side effects, and find cost savings.
Lifelong learning in clinical excellence | September 4, 2026 | 1 min read
By Anita Gupta, DO, PharmD, MPP, Johns Hopkins Medicine
When patients pick up a prescription, the pharmacist can do much more than put medicine in a bottle. Remind patients that pharmacists are medication experts ready to answer questions on the spot with no appointment needed. They help turn complex medication management into clear, easy steps for patients’ daily routine. Below are some things to share with patients.
Pharmacists can:
1. Show patients how to take medications.
Taking medicine correctly can be tricky. Pharmacists demonstrate step-by-step how to use inhalers, self-administer shots, or apply eye drops, just to name a few.
2. Double-check for dangerous combinations.
If patients take vitamins, over-the-counter pain pills, or prescriptions from different doctors, the pharmacist can make sure they won’t react badly together.
3. Explain side effects.
Pharmacists explain what side effects are normal and which ones mean to call their doctor right away.
4. Find ways to save money.
If a drug is expensive, the pharmacist can look for cheaper generic options or discount programs.
Here are few common problems pharmacists can quickly resolve for patients:
Problem: Tricky inhaler
Solution: Pharmacists can show patients how to use it in-person to make sure they get the correct dosage.
Problem: High copay
Solution: Pharmacists can find generic brands or coupons so patients save money.
Problem: Experiencing new side effects
Solution: Pharmacists can explain what to do about it, so that patients understand what’s going on.
Problem: Many medications to manage.
Solution: The pharmacist can organize a daily schedule for them so they never miss a dose.
Finally, encourage patients to ask the pharmacist questions. Pharmacists are standing right behind the counter, ready to help. Encouraging patients to ask a few simple questions can help them get the best results from treatment.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.