Staying on Track with Medications During the Holidays
The holidays are a time for family, fun, and celebration. But for many people, the busy season can also make it harder to keep up with medications. Travel, special events, and schedule changes can throw off your usual routine. At Neighborhood Health Center (NHC), our pharmacy team is here to help you stay on track and healthy through the season.
Why Staying on Track Matters
Taking medications as prescribed helps manage your health and avoid setbacks. Missing doses or running out of prescriptions can lead to more stress or even an emergency visit. The good news? With a little planning, you can keep things simple and stress-free.
Tips for Managing Medications This Holiday Season
- Refill early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Pharmacies may have limited hours or closures on holidays. Call ahead to make sure you have enough medication for your trip or break.
- Use a pill organizer. Pillboxes make it easier to see if you’ve taken your medicine, even when your routine is different.
- Set reminders. Use phone alarms or apps to help you remember to take your medication on time.
- Travel smart. If you’re going out of town, pack enough medication for your trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Always carry medications in your carry-on bag when flying.
- Know your pharmacy options. At NHC, our pharmacists can help with transfers, refills, and advice. If you’re away, you may be able to fill a prescription at another pharmacy in your network.
- Ask questions. Not sure what to do if you miss a dose or how to store your medication while traveling? Our pharmacists are here to help.
Related: Seasonal Wellness Tips to Keep You Healthy All Winter
How NHC Can Support You
Our pharmacy team works closely with your providers to make sure your medications fit into your whole health plan. We can:
- Answer questions about side effects or interactions
- Help set up all your medications to be refilled together
- Connect you with cost-saving programs if you’re worried about the price of medications
The holidays should be a time to enjoy family and community. By planning ahead, you can make sure your medications don’t add extra stress.
Need help with your prescriptions?
Contact your NHC pharmacy team. We’re here to make medication management easier, during the holidays and all year long.
Sources
- Harvard Health Publishing – Tips for managing medications when traveling
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Traveling with medicines
- American Pharmacists Association – Medication adherence
This article was reviewed by Michele Taney, PharmD, Director of Pharmacy at Neighborhood Health Center. Dr. Taney earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Connecticut and brings over 20 years of experience in pharmacy care and leadership. She oversees NHC’s pharmacy services, including clinical pharmacy, dispensing services, and 340B operations. Dr. Taney is committed to ensuring patients receive safe, effective, and accessible medication support as part of whole-person care.