Medication Management — Gaps in Care

Written by Simone Wilkinson—Director of Risk Management, Employee Benefits

April 3, 2024 · 4 minute read · Employee Benefits · Helena, MT

Blog Medication Management — Gaps in Care

It happens to everyone. You’re in a hurry and forget to take your prescribed medication; or between work and life, you may be a few days late with your latest refill. However, it’s important to stay on top of your medication management, especially when it comes to conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or mental health.

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What is medication management?

Medication management typically involves three parts:

  • A patient’s need for medication(s)
  • A prescription for the needed medication(s)
  • Ongoing monitoring once they begin using the medication(s)

Further management includes making any needed adjustments and ensuring patients get their desired outcomes.

What happens if I skip my medication?

Missing doses or gaps in care can have significant effects on your health. For instance, skipping medications for diabetes can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, putting you at risk for complications. Similarly, not managing hypertension properly can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. And when it comes to mental health medications, inconsistency can impact your mood and overall well-being.

Download additional details on the dangers of skipping medication »

How do I remember to take my medication?

Remind yourself why you're taking the medication in the first place. Use that reason as motivation to stay consistent with your regimen. Additionally, consider using a mail-order pharmacy for convenience, and ask your pharmacy to auto-renew your prescriptions to avoid running out.

If getting to the pharmacy is a challenge, check if they offer delivery services. Keeping your medication in a convenient location where you'll see it daily can also serve as a helpful reminder.

What if I have medication side effects?

Remember to communicate any side effects you are experiencing with your healthcare provider. They can help adjust your medication or provide alternative solutions.

Taking care of your health is essential, and managing your medications plays a crucial role in that. By staying consistent and proactive, you can better control your conditions and improve your overall well-being.

Want to learn more about your pharmacy options? Contact an employee benefits advisor for more information.

Have questions? Contact:

Simone Wilkinson

Simone Wilkinson

Director of Risk Management, Employee Benefits

Call: (406) 447-3301

Leveraging over two decades of experience within the health insurance and legal industries, Simone Wilkinson joined Leavitt Great West Insurance in November 2020.

As the Employee Benefit Director of Risk Management, Simone works with a team of data analysts to view data through multiple lenses with a focus on early risk detection before high-dollar spend. This work pays off, with over $6.5 million in reported savings for years 2022 and 2023 combined for our self-funded Captive groups. 

Possessing a highly-technical skill set in managed care, Simone's history includes payer pricing and contracting with healthcare providers, progressive benefit insight, and extensive claim experience, which cumulatively provides a proactive approach to unique scenarios experienced by healthcare consumers and employers.

Prior to her roles in health insurance, Simone worked as a paralegal for eleven years with a primary focus on medical malpractice, litigation assistance, subrogation, case-law research, and trial support to counsel. 

After the last of her two children graduated from high school, Simone found her way from Texas to Montana in 2014. In constant awe of the wildlife, backroads, paddleboarding, and hiking Montana provided, she also met and married her native Montanan, John. In 2021, they moved to Kentucky but still return to Montana as opportunity allows.

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Read Simone's full bio