Are Mail-Order Pharmacies a Safer Choice?

Medication errors occur at various steps in the care-giving process. A doctor may prescribe a medication that is unnecessary. A nurse may fail to take a complete medication history. A pharmacist may fill the prescription incorrectly. No matter where in the line the error occurs, a patient may be entitled to compensation if they are injured as a result of that error.

But what can reduce medication errors? In some instances, the answer may be mail-order pharmacies. According to a study published in the Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy, the trend in mail-order pharmacies was overall positive. Errors in mail-order pharmacies were rare. The largest complaint given by respondents in the study was having had run out of medication at least once.

While the study was certainly not conclusive and should not be taken to mean that visiting a pharmacy in person is less desirable than utilizing a mail-order pharmacy, the news was good. In some instances, insurance companies or employers require that patients order medication from these pharmacies. Knowing that errors are rare, at least in this study, should make people feel better about having to order from these suppliers.

As in any case where a prescription is required, patients are urged to speak with their doctors to understand their medications. Knowing why the medication has been prescribed, how it is to be taken and how often it is to be administered can help to reduce injury.

If you or a loved one has experienced a medication error on the part of a medical professional in New York, you may be entitled to compensation for your injury, including medical bills, lost wages and more. Reach out to our team of knowledgeable medical malpractice attorneys today to schedule an appointment for a free consultation. We will review the details of your injury and provide you with options.