What to do if you forget your prescription on vacation

This piece is sponsored by Avera Health.

We’ve all been there. You’re ready to start a week of relaxation then realize you forgot your medication at home. Or maybe you realize you’ll run out midway through.

Whether it’s for a chronic condition like high blood pressure or a short-term antibiotic, not having your medication while away can be stressful. Not to mention worrying about the extra expense.

You likely don’t have to go without until you get home. Eddy Ekobena, manager of pharmacy services with Avera Health Plans, is here to walk you through what to do and how to get reimbursed.

Plan ahead to ensure you have enough medication

Depending how long your vacation is, you may run out of drugs while traveling. In this case, call your insurance provider. In these situations, they can provide what’s called a vacation override to refill a prescription early.

Consider your options

Whether you forgot them at home, lost them or ran out, determine:

• Which medications you forgot.
• How many days you’ll be gone.
• If missing doses will cause serious health risks.

Some medications have more urgent consequences than others when missed. If you’re unsure, call your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on next steps and whether a dose can be delayed safely.

Contact your home pharmacy

Call your regular pharmacy to let them know what happened. In many cases, they can help transfer your prescription to a nearby pharmacy where you’re staying. Most large chain pharmacies in the U.S. such as Walmart, Walgreens and CVS make prescription transfers fast and easy.

Find an in-network pharmacy

If an easy prescription transfer isn’t possible, check your member portal or call your provider to find an in-network pharmacy near you. Staying in-network helps keep your out-of-pocket costs lower and ensures your medication is covered.

Go to urgent care if you can’t reach your provider 

If your prescriber’s office is closed or unreachable — weekends or holidays — a local urgent care or telemedicine provider may be able to help. Be prepared to share your medication name, dose and why you take it. Keep in mind: Controlled substances such as stimulants or opioids may be more difficult or even impossible to refill while out of town because of strict regulations.

Keep receipts for reimbursement

Some health plans, including Avera Health Plans, allow you to submit for reimbursement after you return home, especially for emergency fills. You may need to pay out of pocket for the refill. Ask for a detailed receipt and medication label. You’ll need to submit a prescription reimbursement form with the necessary receipt and information within 12 months from the date of service. As a member, the form is available in your member portal.

Get more tips about using your health insurance benefits.