Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke NC Your Guide to Health and Wellness.

Embark on a journey with Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke NC, where we peel back the layers to reveal everything you need to know about this essential community resource. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll discover a world dedicated to your well-being, offering more than just prescriptions. This exploration dives deep into the heart of the pharmacy, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of its services, staff, and commitment to your health.

Imagine a place where convenience meets care, where experienced professionals stand ready to assist you with a smile. This isn’t just a pharmacy; it’s a hub for health, offering a wide array of services designed to make managing your health as easy and stress-free as possible. Prepare to uncover the secrets behind prescription transfers, refill procedures, and the friendly faces that make this pharmacy a cornerstone of the Pembroke community.

We’ll explore the array of services, from vaccinations to over-the-counter essentials, and delve into the practicalities of insurance, payment options, and the overall experience.

Table of Contents

Location and Contact Information

Navigating healthcare can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt, but finding the Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, shouldn’t be a quest. This information will help you pinpoint its location, know when they’re open, and reach them when you need to.

Physical Address

Knowing the exact location is the first step in any journey. The Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, can be found at:

1900 N Pine St, Pembroke, NC 28372

Operating Hours

Understanding the pharmacy’s operating hours allows you to plan your visits efficiently. Here’s a breakdown of their schedule:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Please note that these hours are subject to change, especially during holidays. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm, particularly if you’re planning a visit on a holiday.

Contact Information

When you need to speak with the pharmacy staff directly, you can reach them by phone. This is essential for prescription refills, medication questions, or any other inquiries.

Phone: (910) 521-7177

Services Offered

At Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, we’re dedicated to providing a comprehensive suite of healthcare services designed to meet your needs with convenience and care. Our goal is to be more than just a place to pick up prescriptions; we strive to be your partner in health, offering a wide array of products and services to support your well-being.

Prescription Filling Services

We understand that managing your prescriptions can be complex. That’s why we offer a streamlined prescription filling process designed for efficiency and accuracy. We’re committed to making it easy for you to access the medications you need.

New Prescriptions: Simply drop off your prescription or have your doctor electronically send it to us. We handle the rest, from verifying your insurance to ensuring accuracy.
Refills: Refilling your prescriptions is a breeze. You can refill online, through our mobile app, by phone, or in person. We’ll even send you reminders when your refills are due.
Prescription Transfers: Transferring your prescriptions to our pharmacy is simple. We can handle the process for you, contacting your previous pharmacy to ensure a smooth transition.
Medication Synchronization: We offer medication synchronization to align your refill dates, making it easier to manage multiple prescriptions.
Adherence Packaging: For patients who need assistance remembering to take their medications, we offer adherence packaging, which organizes medications by date and time.

Over-the-Counter Medications and Health Products

We stock a wide variety of over-the-counter (OTC) medications and health products to address your everyday health needs. From common ailments to preventative care, we’ve got you covered.

Pain Relief: We offer a comprehensive selection of pain relievers, including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen, in various strengths and formulations.
Cold and Flu Remedies: Find relief from cold and flu symptoms with our selection of cough suppressants, decongestants, expectorants, and combination medications.
Allergy Medications: Combat seasonal allergies with our range of antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops.
Vitamins and Supplements: Support your overall health with our selection of vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements.
First Aid Supplies: We carry a full range of first aid supplies, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and wound care products.
Personal Care Items: Browse our selection of personal care items, including skincare products, oral hygiene products, and feminine hygiene products.

Specialized Services

Beyond prescription filling and OTC products, we offer specialized services designed to provide comprehensive care. Our team is dedicated to supporting your health journey.

Immunizations: Protect yourself and your loved ones with our immunization services. We offer a variety of vaccines, including the flu shot, shingles vaccine, and others, based on availability and recommendations from the CDC.
Medication Therapy Management (MTM): Our pharmacists provide medication therapy management services, including medication reviews, to help you understand your medications, identify potential drug interactions, and optimize your treatment plan.
Diabetes Care: We offer specialized services for patients with diabetes, including blood glucose monitoring supplies, counseling on diabetes management, and education on healthy lifestyle choices.

Service Fees Table

Below is a table summarizing the services we offer, their descriptions, and associated fees (if any). Please note that fees may vary depending on insurance coverage and specific services.

Service	Description	Fees (Approximate)
Prescription Filling	Filling new and refill prescriptions, prescription transfers.	Varies depending on insurance coverage and medication cost.
Immunizations	Administering vaccines, such as flu shots, shingles, and other vaccines.	Varies depending on vaccine and insurance coverage. Some vaccines may be covered by insurance at no cost.
Medication Therapy Management (MTM)	Medication reviews, counseling, and optimization of medication plans.	May be covered by insurance; fees may apply if not covered.
Diabetes Care	Blood glucose monitoring supplies, counseling, and education.	Varies depending on supplies needed and insurance coverage.
Over-the-Counter Products	A wide variety of over-the-counter medications and health products.	Varies depending on the product purchased.

Insurance and Payment Options

At Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, we understand the importance of making healthcare affordable and accessible. Navigating insurance and payment options can sometimes feel like deciphering a secret code, but we’re here to simplify things. Our goal is to provide you with clear, straightforward information so you can focus on what matters most: your health. We strive to accept a wide range of insurance plans and payment methods to meet your needs.

Insurance Plans Accepted

We’re committed to working with a variety of insurance providers to help you manage your prescription costs.We accept most major insurance plans, including:

Medicare Part D plans
Medicaid plans
Commercial insurance plans from providers like:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- UnitedHealthcare
- Cigna
- Aetna

It’s always a good idea to bring your insurance card with you when you pick up your prescriptions. This helps us ensure your information is up-to-date and that we can process your claim quickly and accurately. If you have any questions about whether we accept your specific plan, feel free to give us a call or visit us in person.

We are here to help.
We encourage you to verify coverage details with your insurance provider. You can usually do this by calling the number on the back of your insurance card or by logging into your online account. This will give you the most accurate information regarding your specific plan’s benefits, including copays, deductibles, and formulary restrictions.

Payment Methods Accepted

To make paying for your prescriptions and other purchases as convenient as possible, we offer a variety of payment options.
We accept the following payment methods:

Cash
Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express)
Debit Cards
Checks (with valid identification)
Health Savings Account (HSA) cards
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards

We aim to make the payment process as smooth as possible. Our friendly pharmacy staff is always available to assist you with any questions you may have about payment methods or processing.

Discounts and Savings Programs

We understand that managing prescription costs can be a challenge. That’s why we offer several programs designed to help you save money on your medications.
Our savings programs include:

Walmart’s $4/$10 Generic Program: This program offers many common generic medications for just $4 for a 30-day supply and $10 for a 90-day supply. This can provide significant savings compared to the cost of brand-name drugs or other pharmacy prices.
Manufacturer Coupons: We accept manufacturer coupons for eligible medications, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Patient Assistance Programs: If you qualify, we can help you navigate patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. These programs can provide free or low-cost medications to eligible patients. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the specific program.

To illustrate the potential savings, consider a real-life example. A patient with a prescription for a common cholesterol-lowering medication, such as atorvastatin, could save a substantial amount by utilizing Walmart’s $4/$10 Generic Program, rather than paying the full retail price elsewhere. This could result in hundreds of dollars saved annually. Another example would be a patient using a manufacturer coupon for a brand-name asthma inhaler, reducing their copay by $25 or more per prescription.

We recommend checking our pharmacy regularly for any seasonal promotions or special offers. We are always looking for ways to provide the best value for our customers.

Staff and Personnel

At Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, North Carolina, a dedicated team of professionals works tirelessly to ensure the health and well-being of the community. From dispensing medications to providing patient counseling, each member of the pharmacy staff plays a vital role in delivering exceptional healthcare services. The staff’s collective experience and commitment to patient care are hallmarks of this pharmacy.

Roles of Pharmacy Staff, Walmart pharmacy in pembroke nc

The pharmacy team operates as a cohesive unit, with each member contributing their expertise to the overall patient experience. Their roles are well-defined, promoting efficiency and accuracy in all pharmacy operations.Pharmacists:

Pharmacists are the cornerstone of the pharmacy, responsible for a wide range of critical tasks. They oversee all aspects of medication dispensing, ensuring accuracy and safety.
Pharmacists are experts in pharmacology, possessing in-depth knowledge of drug interactions, side effects, and proper usage. They provide comprehensive medication counseling to patients, answering questions and addressing concerns.
They are also responsible for verifying prescriptions, collaborating with physicians, and managing the pharmacy’s inventory.
Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who hold a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and are licensed by the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy.

Pharmacy Technicians:

Pharmacy technicians support the pharmacists by performing a variety of essential duties. They are integral to the efficient operation of the pharmacy.
Technicians assist with prescription processing, data entry, and medication preparation. They may also handle insurance claims and manage inventory under the pharmacist’s supervision.
Many pharmacy technicians are certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), demonstrating their commitment to professional standards.
They often have specialized training in areas such as sterile compounding or medication dispensing systems.

Pharmacy Leadership

The leadership within the Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke sets the tone for patient care and operational excellence. The pharmacy manager or lead pharmacist plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the pharmacy and fostering a positive work environment.* The pharmacy manager typically oversees all aspects of pharmacy operations, including staff management, inventory control, and financial performance.

They are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as maintaining a high level of patient safety.
The lead pharmacist often serves as a mentor and resource for other pharmacists and technicians, providing guidance and support.
They are responsible for upholding the highest standards of professional practice and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

Experience and Qualifications

The pharmacy staff at Walmart in Pembroke brings a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles. Their qualifications reflect a commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services.* Pharmacists typically possess several years of clinical experience, allowing them to provide knowledgeable and compassionate care. They often have specialized training or certifications in areas such as diabetes management, immunizations, or medication therapy management.

Pharmacy technicians have a range of experience, from entry-level positions to those with years of service. Many have completed formal training programs and hold certifications, demonstrating their proficiency in pharmacy practice.
The staff regularly participates in continuing education programs to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in pharmacy practice. This commitment to ongoing learning ensures that patients receive the most current and effective care.
The pharmacy team’s combined experience contributes to a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared and patient care is prioritized.

Prescription Transfer and Refill Procedures

At Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, we understand that managing your prescriptions should be as straightforward and stress-free as possible. We’ve designed our transfer and refill processes to be convenient and efficient, ensuring you get the medications you need, when you need them.

Transferring Prescriptions

Moving your prescriptions to our pharmacy is easier than you might think. We handle the communication with your previous pharmacy, saving you valuable time and effort.To initiate a prescription transfer:

Provide us with the name of your current pharmacy and your prescription information. This includes the medication name, dosage, and the prescribing doctor’s name.
You can provide this information in person, over the phone, or through our online portal (if available).
Our pharmacy team will then contact your previous pharmacy to request the transfer of your prescriptions.
Once the transfer is complete, we’ll notify you that your prescriptions are ready for pickup.

Requesting Prescription Refills

We offer multiple convenient options for requesting refills, allowing you to choose the method that best fits your lifestyle.The available methods for requesting refills include:

Online: Utilize our online portal or mobile app (if available). Simply log in to your account, select the prescriptions you need refilled, and submit your request.
Phone: Call our pharmacy directly and provide your prescription number and any other necessary information.
In-Person: Visit our pharmacy and speak with a pharmacist or pharmacy technician to request your refills.

Turnaround Time for Prescription Refills

We strive to fill your prescriptions as quickly as possible while maintaining accuracy and safety. The typical turnaround time for prescription refills is approximately:

For most refills: Expect your prescription to be ready within 1-2 business days.
For new prescriptions or prescriptions requiring special handling: The turnaround time may be slightly longer. We’ll always keep you informed of any delays.

Please note that these are estimates, and the actual time may vary depending on factors such as medication availability, insurance verification, and any required compounding. We always recommend requesting refills in advance to avoid any interruption in your medication schedule.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Your experience matters! We continuously strive to improve our services at the Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC. Gathering and analyzing customer feedback is a crucial part of this process, helping us understand what we do well and where we can enhance your pharmacy experience. This section summarizes the common themes and provides illustrative examples derived from customer reviews.

Common Themes in Customer Reviews

Customer feedback offers a valuable lens through which to view our pharmacy’s performance. Analyzing reviews reveals recurring themes, both positive and negative, that highlight key areas of customer satisfaction and areas needing attention.

Positive Themes: Customers frequently praise the pharmacy staff’s friendliness and helpfulness. The convenience of the Walmart location, combined with competitive pricing, also receives positive mentions. The efficiency of the drive-thru service is another often-cited advantage. Many customers appreciate the availability of a wide range of medications and over-the-counter products.
Negative Themes: Long wait times, especially during peak hours, are a common concern. Some customers have reported difficulties with prescription transfers or refills, and occasional issues with medication availability. While generally positive, some reviews mention inconsistency in service quality depending on the staff member on duty.

Customer Experiences: Service Quality and Wait Times

Real-world examples from customer reviews paint a vivid picture of the pharmacy experience. These anecdotes illustrate the impact of service quality and wait times on customer satisfaction.

For example, consider a customer named Sarah. Sarah, in a review, wrote about a time she was waiting for her child’s medication. It was a busy Saturday afternoon, and she noted the long queue. Despite the wait, she was impressed with the pharmacist, who took the time to explain the medication to her and answer all her questions patiently. The pharmacist even provided helpful tips on administering the medicine to her child.

While the wait was frustrating, Sarah’s overall experience was positive because of the personalized service she received.

Conversely, consider a review from a customer named Michael. Michael, in his review, recounted an experience where he attempted to transfer a prescription from another pharmacy. He mentioned facing several challenges, including multiple calls, delays, and a lack of clear communication. He stated that the process took longer than expected, causing significant inconvenience.

Fictional Positive Customer Testimonial

We are committed to providing exceptional service. Here is a fictional, yet representative, testimonial highlighting a positive experience:

“I’ve been coming to the Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke for years, and I’ve always been impressed. The staff is always so friendly and helpful, especially the pharmacist, Mrs. Davis. They are always ready to answer any questions I have about my medications, and they go above and beyond to make sure I understand everything. The drive-thru is a lifesaver, especially when I’m in a hurry. I truly appreciate their dedication to providing excellent service!”

A Satisfied Customer.

Comparison with Other Pharmacies

Deciding where to fill your prescriptions can feel like navigating a maze. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about finding the best value and care for your health. Let’s take a look at how Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, stacks up against the competition, focusing on services, pricing, and overall advantages and disadvantages.

Local Competitor Comparison: Services and Pricing

Pembroke, NC, has a few pharmacy options, including local independent pharmacies and other chain pharmacies. To illustrate, let’s compare Walmart Pharmacy with a hypothetical local independent pharmacy called “Pembroke Family Pharmacy.” Pembroke Family Pharmacy may offer personalized service, including medication reviews and consultations. They might also provide services like compounding medications, which Walmart typically doesn’t. Pricing, however, is where a significant difference often emerges.

Walmart’s large-scale purchasing power generally allows them to offer lower prices on generic medications, a critical factor for many patients. Consider the case of a common medication, such as a generic statin for cholesterol. Walmart could potentially offer this at a lower price point than Pembroke Family Pharmacy.In terms of services, Pembroke Family Pharmacy might offer home delivery, which could be particularly beneficial for elderly or mobility-impaired patients.

Walmart, on the other hand, usually focuses on in-store pickup and, potentially, mail-order options through their online platform.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Choosing Walmart Pharmacy

Choosing a pharmacy involves weighing the pros and cons to determine the best fit for your needs.

Advantages:
- Lower Prices: Walmart often offers significantly lower prices on generic medications compared to other pharmacies, including independent pharmacies and even some other chain stores. This can translate into substantial savings, especially for patients with chronic conditions requiring long-term medication use.
- Convenience: The Walmart Pharmacy is conveniently located within the larger Walmart store, offering the convenience of picking up prescriptions while shopping for groceries and other household items.
- Accessibility: Walmart pharmacies are typically open during extended hours, including evenings and weekends, making it easier to access medication when needed.
- Online Services: Walmart provides online prescription refills and management, allowing patients to order and track their prescriptions from home.
Disadvantages:
- Potentially Less Personalized Service: Due to the high volume of customers, the level of personalized attention from pharmacists might be lower compared to smaller, independent pharmacies. This may result in shorter consultation times and less in-depth medication reviews.
- Wait Times: During peak hours, wait times for prescription filling and pickup could be longer than at smaller pharmacies.
- Limited Specialty Services: Walmart pharmacies might not offer specialized services like compounding medications or certain immunizations that are available at some independent pharmacies.

Ultimately, the “best” pharmacy is the one that best suits your individual needs. Consider your budget, the medications you require, and the level of personalized service you value when making your decision.

Accessibility and Convenience: Walmart Pharmacy In Pembroke Nc

Navigating the daily demands of healthcare should be as seamless as possible. At Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, we understand that accessibility and convenience are paramount, which is why we’ve designed our services with your comfort and ease in mind. We’re committed to ensuring every visit is straightforward and stress-free.

Parking Facilities

Ample parking is crucial for a smooth pharmacy experience. We have taken steps to make your visit easy and stress-free.Parking options at the Pembroke Walmart Pharmacy include:* Designated Parking Spaces: Plenty of parking spots are conveniently located near the pharmacy entrance. These are marked with clear signage for easy identification.

Wide Parking Lanes

Our parking lanes are designed to accommodate various vehicle sizes, allowing for easy maneuvering and ample space for opening doors.

Handicap Accessible Parking

We offer several accessible parking spaces close to the pharmacy entrance to cater to individuals with disabilities. These spaces comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, ensuring accessibility for all.

Well-Lit Parking Area

The parking area is well-lit, providing safety and security, especially during evening hours.

Accessibility Features for Individuals with Disabilities

We believe everyone deserves easy access to their medications and healthcare services. We are dedicated to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all our customers.Key accessibility features at Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke include:* Ramps and Accessible Entrances: The pharmacy entrance is equipped with ramps and automatic doors to provide easy access for wheelchairs and mobility devices.

Wide Aisles

Aisles within the pharmacy are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, ensuring comfortable navigation throughout the store.

Accessible Restrooms

Restrooms are designed with accessibility in mind, including grab bars, wider doorways, and appropriate height fixtures.

Assistive Listening Devices

We provide assistive listening devices for customers with hearing impairments to facilitate clear communication at the pharmacy counter.

Large Print Labels

Prescription labels are available in large print upon request, making it easier for individuals with visual impairments to read their medication instructions.

Pharmacist Consultation

Our pharmacists are always available to provide personalized medication counseling and answer any questions customers may have.

Drive-Through Service

To provide additional convenience, Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke offers a drive-through service, allowing you to pick up your prescriptions without leaving your vehicle. This is especially helpful for those with mobility issues, busy schedules, or when the weather is inclement.The drive-through service operates with the following features:* Dedicated Drive-Through Lane: A clearly marked lane is designated specifically for the pharmacy drive-through.

Easy Ordering

You can order your refills online or through the Walmart app, and then simply drive up to the drive-through window to pick them up.

Efficient Service

Our staff is trained to process drive-through orders quickly and efficiently, minimizing wait times.

Convenient Hours

The drive-through service is available during pharmacy operating hours, providing flexibility in picking up your prescriptions.

Community Involvement

At Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, NC, we believe that being a good neighbor means more than just filling prescriptions. It means actively participating in the health and well-being of the community we serve. We strive to create a positive impact by supporting local initiatives and providing valuable resources to our neighbors.

Community Health Initiatives and Events Participation

We are committed to actively engaging in events that promote health awareness and preventative care. This participation reflects our dedication to the community’s overall health.

Health Fairs: We regularly participate in local health fairs, providing free health screenings such as blood pressure and glucose checks. Our pharmacists are available to answer questions about medications and offer advice on healthy living. Imagine a vibrant community center buzzing with activity, tables adorned with health information, and the friendly faces of our pharmacy staff engaging with residents, sharing valuable insights and answering questions with genuine care.
Vaccination Clinics: During flu season and other times when vaccinations are crucial, we organize and host vaccination clinics, making it easier for community members to receive essential immunizations. Picture a pop-up clinic in a local church, easily accessible and staffed with trained professionals, ensuring everyone has access to vital preventative care.
Sponsorships: We provide sponsorships for local health-related events, supporting organizations that work tirelessly to improve the health and wellness of our community. This could be a sponsorship for a local 5k run benefiting a health charity, or a donation to a school health program.

Partnerships with Local Healthcare Providers

Collaboration with local healthcare providers is a cornerstone of our commitment to patient care. These partnerships ensure seamless care coordination and comprehensive support for our patients.

Physician Collaboration: We work closely with local physicians, sharing patient medication profiles and providing insights to help them make informed decisions. This collaborative approach ensures that the patient receives the best possible care.
Nursing Home Support: We provide pharmacy services to local nursing homes, including medication management and consultation, to support the health and well-being of residents. Consider a dedicated pharmacist visiting a nursing home, meticulously reviewing medication lists, and discussing patient needs with the nursing staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
Community Clinics: We partner with local community clinics to provide medication support and educational resources to underserved populations. This collaboration ensures that everyone has access to the medications and information they need to manage their health.

Outreach Programs and Health Education Efforts

We are deeply invested in educating the community about important health topics and providing resources to help individuals manage their health effectively.

Medication Education: Our pharmacists offer one-on-one consultations to educate patients about their medications, including proper usage, potential side effects, and drug interactions. Picture a patient sitting with a pharmacist, receiving clear and concise explanations about their medication, fostering a sense of understanding and empowerment.
Diabetes Education: We offer educational programs and resources for patients with diabetes, helping them manage their condition through proper medication use, diet, and lifestyle adjustments. Imagine a small group gathering at the pharmacy, learning about healthy meal planning, blood sugar monitoring, and the importance of regular exercise.
Health Awareness Campaigns: We organize and participate in health awareness campaigns throughout the year, focusing on topics such as heart health, cancer prevention, and mental health. These campaigns often involve distributing educational materials, providing free screenings, and hosting informational events.
Community Newsletter: We produce a community newsletter, sharing health tips, medication updates, and information about upcoming events. This newsletter is a valuable resource for staying informed about health-related topics and pharmacy services.

Safety and Compliance

At Walmart Pharmacy in Pembroke, North Carolina, patient safety and the integrity of every prescription are paramount. We adhere to stringent regulations and industry best practices to ensure a secure and reliable pharmacy experience. Our commitment extends beyond mere compliance; it’s a dedication to safeguarding your health and well-being.

Adherence to Safety Regulations and Standards

The pharmacy operates in full compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations, including those set forth by the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This includes rigorous adherence to the following:

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Regulations: Strict control over the handling, storage, and dispensing of controlled substances. This encompasses meticulous record-keeping, secure storage facilities, and regular audits to prevent diversion.
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Compliance: Protecting patient privacy through secure storage of protected health information (PHI), restricted access to patient records, and comprehensive employee training on privacy protocols.
FDA Guidelines: Following FDA guidelines for drug storage, handling, and compounding (if applicable), including proper temperature control and expiration date monitoring.
State Board of Pharmacy Regulations: Meeting all requirements set by the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, including pharmacist-to-patient ratios, continuing education for pharmacists and technicians, and regular inspections.

Measures for Accuracy and Security of Prescriptions

Ensuring the accuracy and security of prescriptions is a core responsibility. We employ multiple layers of protection to minimize errors and prevent unauthorized access:

Prescription Verification: Pharmacists meticulously verify each prescription, checking for drug interactions, allergies, and appropriate dosages. They also confirm the prescriber’s authorization.
Automated Dispensing Systems: Utilizing automated dispensing systems for certain medications reduces the risk of human error in counting and labeling. These systems often incorporate barcode scanning to verify the correct medication is selected.
Barcode Scanning: Every medication dispensed undergoes barcode scanning to confirm the correct drug, dosage, and patient information, reducing errors and ensuring accuracy.
Secure Storage: Medications are stored in secure, climate-controlled environments to maintain their efficacy and prevent tampering. Controlled substances are kept in locked, restricted-access areas.
Electronic Prescriptions: Accepting electronic prescriptions directly from prescribers minimizes the risk of lost or altered paper prescriptions. Electronic systems provide an audit trail of prescription activity.
Tamper-Evident Packaging: Dispensing medications in tamper-evident packaging provides an extra layer of security and ensures the integrity of the medication.

Quality Control Procedures

Quality control is an ongoing process at Walmart Pharmacy, designed to identify and rectify any potential issues before they impact patient care:

Regular Audits: Conducting regular audits of prescription records, inventory, and dispensing processes to ensure compliance with regulations and internal protocols.
Pharmacist Review: Pharmacists review prescriptions, focusing on appropriateness, potential interactions, and dosage accuracy, before dispensing.
Medication Reconciliation: Offering medication reconciliation services to patients to create a complete and accurate list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, which is especially crucial for patients with multiple health conditions or taking numerous medications.
Employee Training: Providing ongoing training to pharmacists and technicians on the latest pharmacy practices, medication safety, and regulatory requirements. This includes annual training on HIPAA and other critical compliance topics.
Incident Reporting: Establishing a system for reporting and investigating any medication errors or adverse events, which helps in identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
Inventory Management: Implementing robust inventory management practices to ensure medications are stored correctly, expired medications are removed promptly, and the pharmacy maintains an adequate supply of commonly prescribed drugs.