Most of us have had to find new ways to work, educate our kids, and deal with social distancing and isolation from loved ones.

However, just like keeping some semblance of routine in our daily lives during lockdown is vital for many of us, complying with chronic medication and pathology monitoring tests, and our children’s immunisation schedules, are crucial.

Why? Because members with chronic conditions need to ensure that their condition is optimally controlled so they stay as healthy as possible, while immunisation against childhood diseases helps protect your kids during a time when we should all try our best to keep out of hospital.

Protective measures should be taken during visits to pharmacies/clinics. Remember that you can have your chronic medication delivered to you – so do talk to your pharmacy. Also try to make an appointment at the clinic to avoid long waiting times with your baby or young child.

1. Collecting your chronic medication during lockdown
Fedhealth recommends that you use the express services offered by Clicks, Dis-Chem and MediRite, since they will prepare your script in advance so that you only need to make a short visit to the pharmacy to collect it and leave quickly. Here’s what they offer you:

Clicks Pharmacy
Clicks Pharmacy offers the Clicks Repeat Prescription Service:
Sign up at the Clicks pharmacy where you’d like to collect or visit clicks.co.za/myMedicines for more information.

Dis-Chem
Dis-Chem offers the Pack My Meds service:
To opt in, visit dischem.co.za/pack-my-meds or contact the Customer Careline on 0860 347 243

MediRite
MediRite’s PrepMyScript service enables you to pre-order your repeat medication on your phone.
Go to http://www.medirite.co.za/index.php/prep-my-script/ to find out more.

2. Having your chronic medication delivered
Several local pharmacies as well as the major pharmacies such as Clicks, Dis-Chem and MediRite are offering delivery of chronic medication during lockdown. Contact your preferred pharmacy to enquire what they can offer you.