So you now have a prescription in hand and you are ready to have it filled. You aren’t looking forward to the lines or the wait. Here are a few tips to keeping your trip to the drug store as quick and easy as possible.

First or One Time Prescriptions

For these prescriptions, you will probably have to go to the prescription and drop off the prescription yourself. Occasionally, doctors will call prescriptions in should there be an immediate need. Don’t be threatened by drug store lines. It may take time to drop off your prescription, have it filled, and pick it back up again. Be strategic. Go to drug stores that are close to grocery stores and go grocery stopping. Or, choose to have your prescription filled within a store like Wal-Mart and shop while your prescription is being filled. Don’t have a drug store near a grocery store or shopping mall? Bring a book or magazine, or balance your checkbook. The time will go faster than you think.

Rapid Refills

Once you have a prescription entered for a recurring medicine (such as something that you fill monthly), the system becomes much easier. Many chain drug stores offer a phone-in service which allows you to request refills for current prescriptions. This is convenient and simple. Call in on your lunch break and pick it up on the way home.

No Insurance Woes

Make sure that you have given your most recent insurance information to your pharmacist so that your prescription will be filled according to the company’s requirements.

Call Before You Go

Sometimes a pharmacy is out of the medication you need, and they don’t always call to let you know. You can save time in the long run by calling to make sure that the prescription you requested, either by dropping off a prescription or by rapid refill, is ready and waiting for you—before you make the trip.