In-Office Medication Dispensing at Northwest Medical Specialties
We understand that undergoing treatment for your condition can be unsettling and time-consuming. In order to provide excellent service and convenience for our patients, Northwest Medical Specialties offers its patients in-office dispensing of select medications.
- Prescription refills are handled only during office hours.
- We ask for a 48-hour notice for prescription refills to ensure your request is accommodated in a timely manner.
- We request you contact your pharmacy for any non-oral chemotherapy or treatment refill requests. They will in turn contact NWMS directly for authorization. When you must call our office for a prescription refill, please have the name and strength of the medication (which is on the label) and the name and phone number of your pharmacy. Some medications, such as certain pain medications, are not refillable by phone, and we may require you to come to the office and pick up a written prescription.
- Please have prescriptions refilled prior to weekends and holidays. Please bring all medications (or a list) with you on each visit with your doctor whether you need refills or not.
To refill your prescription or to check on your prescription status, please call: 253-252-5472 OR our toll free number 1-877-223-6991
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept my prescription benefits coverage?
In most cases, yes. We are able to process prescription claims with most major prescription benefits providers. We are also able to process Medicare Part B and Part D prescriptions as appropriate. Keep in mind that some plans require the use of a mail order pharmacy to fill prescriptions for long-term use. We can help you determine the best available option for filling your prescription.
How long will it take to receive my medication?
We will fill your prescription as quickly as possible following the verification of available prescription benefit coverage and alternative co-payment assistance resources.
Will it cost me more to fill my prescription here than at a retail pharmacy?
No. In fact, there are times where it may cost less to fill your prescription at our practice. Retail pharmacies often require immediate payment and sometimes are not able to verify all coverage options (e.g., Medicare, supplemental plans, co-payment assistance programs) before dispensing. Since we are able to do this before dispensing your medication, as well as investigate alternative co-payment assistance resources, it’s possible you could save money.
Why are you offering in-office dispensing?
We want to provide convenience and total care to the patients receiving treatment in our practice. Since it can be confusing to deal with prescription benefit coverage for the medications used to treat your condition, we’re happy to do the work for you. It benefits both you and your doctor to ensure you get started right away and follow your treatment plan as closely as possible. We are here to help!
How will I be notified my prescription is ready?
Often your prescription may be available immediately. If not, we will call you to arrange a time to pick-up your prescription and discuss your treatment plan with our team.
When can I start using this service?
Talk to your doctor or nurse to get started today. Just make sure you have provided your prescription benefit card to the receptionist for our files. We’ll do the rest, and be there with you every step of the way.
Do I have to fill my prescription at your office?
No. You are welcome to fill your prescription at any pharmacy that accepts your prescription benefit coverage. We simply offer this service as a convenience and total care option to our patients. If you decide to fill your prescription at another pharmacy, your decision will in no way affect the medical care you receive from our health care professionals.
How do I access medications or medical advice during an emergency?
Patient or caregiver will call Northwest Medical Specialties at: 253-252-5472 OR our toll free number 1-877-223-6991 for further guidance on how to obtain medications or medical services. If the office cannot be reached please go immediately to the nearest hospital or clinic for further assistance.
What happens if the dispensary is unable to fill my prescription?
If our dispensary is unable to provide your medication, we can have your medication sent to another specialty or retail pharmacy.
How will I be notified if the medication I am taking is recalled?
The dispensary staff monitors all medication recall notices from our wholesaler and will contact you by phone or mail to indicate the proper method to return your medication and get a replacement if necessary.
How do I properly dispose of my medications?
If you have unused medication, please take them to a local pharmacy that has a medication take-back program or contact our dispensary for the proper method of disposal.
How do I handle questions about side-effects or other questions I have about my medication?
Please call our office at 253-252-5472 OR our toll free number 1-877-223-6991 and ask to speak with triage personnel.
How will I know if my insurance is in-network or out-of-network?
Please call your insurances customer service representative line to find out if our office is in-network, the number is located on the back of your insurance card.
Is there someone I can speak to if my prescription costs are too high?
Co-Pay Assistance Program offers financial support toward the cost of insurance co-payments and/or insurance premium costs for prescription drugs. Patients must qualify both medically and financially for this program. Please call our office at 253-428-8700 and ask to speak with a Financial Counselor to see if you qualify today!