Everything You Need to Know About an In-House Pharmacy

Introduction

Did you know that nearly 66% of Americans take prescription drugs, with dermatology medications being among the most commonly prescribed? This statistic highlights the growing need for more efficient and patient-centric medication dispensing methods, such as in-house pharmacies. At Bryn Mawr Dermatology (BMD), we understand this need and have seamlessly integrated an in-house pharmacy into our practice to enhance patient care and convenience.

Since opening our doors in 2005, Dr. Christine Stanko, the founder and president of Bryn Mawr Dermatology, has been unwavering in her commitment to providing the highest quality patient care. This dedication has led to numerous clinic expansions that include a diverse range of cosmetic treatments, a Mohs Surgery Center, and, most relevant to this article, the implementation of an in-house pharmacy. Each advancement has helped BMD get closer to offering all-encompassing, efficient skincare solutions under one roof.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of in-house pharmacies, discuss how they operate, and explain why they are becoming essential to modern dermatology practices. We’ll also shed light on how Bryn Mawr Dermatology’s in-house pharmacy exemplifies our commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-focused care.

While this article spells out some important information about an in-house pharmacy, we highly recommend you read the full article, here are the key points we will focus on:

Table of Contents

In-House Pharmacy

What is an In-House Pharmacy?

An in-house pharmacy is a modern approach to patient care. It’s not just a facility for dispensing medications; it is an integral part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This approach streamlines the process for patients, allowing them to receive medications immediately after their consultations, thus eliminating the need for additional pharmacy visits and enabling a quicker start to their treatment.

The pharmacy at Bryn Mawr Dermatology is deeply personal and patient-focused. Dedicated exclusively to the clinic’s patients, it provides tailored medication management, considering each patient’s unique medication history and preferences. This level of personalization ensures that each patient’s treatment plan is as effective and convenient as possible. Moreover, the pharmacy emphasizes cost-effectiveness. Our team actively works to find the most affordable prescription options, whether through discount coupons, insurance-preferred alternatives, or extended supply arrangements, all in an effort to ease the financial burden on patients.  

Furthermore, the in-house pharmacy emphasizes exceptional customer service. We navigate the complexities of insurance, strive to minimize wait times, and offer a complimentary courier service for delivering refills, all to ensure a seamless and convenient experience for our patients. Our pharmacy team’s direct and immediate access to the BMD healthcare providers supports this level of service as it precipitates efficient communication and coordination in patient care.

When Do I Get My Medicine?

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, receiving your medication is a swift and efficient process:

1. Immediate Dispensing

In most cases, you’ll receive your medication before leaving our office. Our medical team electronically sends prescriptions to our pharmacy, where they are promptly prepared. We ensure you get the most cost-effective option and leave with your treatment in hand.

2. Insurance Coordination

Sometimes, we must process prior authorizations with your insurance to get your prescription, which can unfortunately delay the prescription-fill process. Prior authorizations are required when the drug your doctor prescribes is not a “preferred” medication per your insurance coverage, often due to the cost of the drug. To get the requested medication we will provide documentation supporting why the specific medication was prescribed. In the case that your insurance still chooses not to cover said drug, we will find a comparable alternative. Rest assured, our team starts this process immediately, and works diligently until we find a solution for you.

3. Home Delivery and Alternative Options:

If you visit one of our offices that does not yet have an active dispensary, we nearly always guarantee free home-courier on the same or the next working day. If you are outside the courier radius, we can use the USPS to safely and quickly deliver your prescription. Alternatively, we can always opt to send your prescription to a pharmacy of your choice if that’s more convenient for you.

What Are the Benefits of an In-House Pharmacy?

In-house pharmacies bring numerous benefits that enhance patient care. Studies have shown that pharmacies integrated within clinics can improve medication adherence and patient outcomes. 

Some of the key benefits include:

In-Office Dispensing:

  • Convenience: Patients receive medications immediately, saving time and simplifying treatment.
  • Improved Adherence: Readily available medications encourage patients to start and continue their prescribed regimens. And when you use your medication as designed, and stick to it, your results tend to be seen more quickly and more prominently.
  • Personalized Care: The dispensing team is working just for you. They have time to answer any questions you might have about the drug, the dosing, or how to use/take the medication. 
  • Enhanced Coordination: The dispensing team has direct access to your medical records and your prescribing provider, allowing for more tailored medication management. Close collaboration between healthcare providers and the pharmacy team results in better treatment planning and follow-up.

Incorporating an in-house pharmacy is a strategic move towards a more patient-centric approach in healthcare. It aligns with the goals of modern medical practices to provide comprehensive, integrated care that addresses immediate health needs and contributes to long-term wellness and patient satisfaction.

What Happens If I Need a Refill and I'm Not in the Area of My Doctor's Office?

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, we understand that our patients’ lives can take them beyond the vicinity of our offices, but we ensure that their skincare regimen remains uninterrupted. We have you covered if you need a refill, but are traveling away from home. We’re equipped to coordinate the delivery of your medication to wherever you are, accommodating the needs of our patients, including those who might be attending college or living in different locations temporarily. Additionally, our telemedicine services provide continuity of care, allowing you to stay connected with your dermatology team and avoid the hassle of finding and adjusting to a new doctor in a different area. This seamless approach to medication management and patient care ensures that your treatment continues smoothly, regardless of physical location.

What Are the Downsides of an In-House Pharmacy?

While an in-house pharmacy offers many benefits, there are certain limitations to consider. Our range of dermatology medications is extensive, but does not include every dermatological drug available. When a specific medication isn’t in our inventory, we guide our patients to the most efficient and affordable external sources. 

Our personal courier service is dedicated to ensure timely deliveries within a wide radius around each of our office locations; however, its reach is not endless and certain homes may fall outside of our courier zones. If this ends up being the case, medications can always be picked up in any of our offices during normal business hours and with enough notice.

Furthermore, our pharmacy services are solely focused on dermatological treatments, so patients must continue to rely on traditional pharmacies for other medications that have been prescribed by outside physicians. We strive to mitigate these downsides by providing exceptional service within the scope of our capabilities, and ensuring that your care and convenience are always our top priorities.

Why does Bryn Mawr Dermatology Have Everything You Need, Including an In-House Pharmacy?

Bryn Mawr Dermatology stands out as a comprehensive care provider, enhanced by our state-of-the-art in-house pharmacy. This article has highlighted how our in-house pharmacy elevates patient care through immediate medication dispensing, personalized services, cost-effective solutions, and exceptional customer service. Unlike many competitors, we offer a unique blend of advanced dermatological care with the convenience of an on-site pharmacy, ensuring a seamless treatment experience.

If you’re seeking expert dermatological care complemented by the convenience of an in-house pharmacy, consider scheduling an appointment with Bryn Mawr Dermatology. Our skilled team is ready to evaluate your concerns and craft a tailored treatment plan. Experience our welcoming and well-equipped Bryn Mawr office by contacting us at 610-525-7800. We are here to provide exceptional care, addressing all your dermatological needs under one roof.

Related Content

Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Content Review Committee at Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Led by Board Certified Dermatologist, Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD, Bryn Mawr Dermatology incorporates a patient-focused outlook in every decision since we first opened our doors on the Main Line in 2005.

By: Bryn Mawr Dermatology, Published: Jan 25, 2024
Medically Reviewed By: Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD – Jan 25, 2024

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