Kitchen Wisdom: 4 Quick, Easy Tips For Switching Pharmacies

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In honor of Weis Markets at Brunswick Crossing, we're offering our neighbors and friends weekly Kitchen Wisdom to take into your new home.

This week, we're talking about how to quickly and effectively change pharmacies when moving. Check it out below:

Let your new pharmacy know that you want to transfer your family’s prescriptions from your old pharmacy. You’ll need the name, strength, and prescription number of each medicine, as well as the phone number of your former pharmacy and your health insurance information. You can do this by calling or visiting the new pharmacy.

Tip: You may be able to do a medical transfer online if your new pharmacy offers transfer services on their website or mobile app. If they offer online transfers, you should send your first and last name, date of birth, address, phone number, and any allergies through their website to the new pharmacy.

If you’re transferring to our Weis, click here for directions on how to refill your prescription.

Be patient. The amount of time that your new pharmacy needs to fill your prescriptions depends on how many need to be transferred. This takes, on average, one to three days before you can pick it up. This allotted time gives the new pharmacy time to iron out details behind the scenes before your first visit.

Tip: If you know that potential issues will arise during the transfer process, it’s best to alert the new pharmacy in advance by calling the pharmacist.

Understand what can be transferred. According to GoodRx, an online information source for pharmacies and prescription drugs, “Schedule II controlled substance medications cannot be transferred -- at all. They also aren’t eligible for refills.”

This means that your family’s doctor needs to give you a new prescription every time you fill. Some common examples include the following:

  • Adderall, used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Concerta, used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy
  • Oxycontin, used to treat postoperative pain
  • Percocet, used to treat severe and/or chronic pain
  • Vicodin, used to treat severe and/or chronic pain

On the other hand, “Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substance medications can only be transferred one time, no matter how many refills you have left. If you need to [make a] transfer again, you’ll need a new prescription from your doctor.”

Some common examples include the following:

  • Acetaminophen/Codeine, used to treat severe and/or chronic pain
  • Ambien, used to treat insomnia
  • Testosterone, used to treat male hypogonadism and certain types of breast cancer
  • Ultram, used to treat severe and/or chronic pain
  • Xanax, used to treat anxiety and/or panic disorders

Enroll in Manage My Meds. At Weis Markets at Brunswick Crossing, you can synchronize your prescriptions and reach your health goals with this program. Here’s how it works:

  • Choose a date that’s most convenient to you for pick-up.
  • Receive a phone call about a week prior from a pharmacist regarding any changes to your regular medication.
  • Receive a phone call when your medication is ready to be picked up.
  • Schedule a free monthly consultation with Weis pharmacists to discuss any health concerns or questions. 

When it comes to moving into a new home, we understand that you’re also moving your life around. To make things easier, take our quick tips for transferring your family’s prescriptions before you need them.