Florida · Caregivers
Helping a parent or loved one with refills in Florida
Many Florida families manage a parent's medicines from another city or another state. Here's how to help without taking over.
How you can help
- Collect photos of every pharmacy label and a current medication list
- Help with the intake form and payment
- Join the phone or video conversation if your loved one wants you there
- Pick a convenient pharmacy and check its hours
What the patient needs to do
The patient must be physically in Florida, be able to answer the physician's questions and agree to care. If your loved one can't make their own medical decisions, a legal representative, such as a health care surrogate or someone with a qualifying power of attorney, needs to be involved, and in-person care may be a better fit.
Medication safety for older adults
- Use a weekly pill organizer and keep an up-to-date list
- Watch for dizziness and falls, especially with blood pressure, diabetes and sleep medicines
- Bring every bottle, including supplements, to a pharmacist for a medication review once a year
- Ask about medicines that are often riskier in older adults, such as some sleep aids and antihistamines
Common questions
Can I request a refill for my mother without her on the call?
No. The patient must take part and consent. You're welcome to help her complete the form and join the call.
My father has memory problems. Can you still help?
Possibly, if he can take part and a legal representative is involved when needed. For complex cases, his regular clinician or an in-person visit is usually better.
Can the prescription go to a pharmacy near me instead of near her?
It must go to a pharmacy in Florida. Choose one convenient for whoever picks it up.