VALDOSTA, GA – South Georgia Medical Center and Chancy Drugs want to educate the community to “Know Your Prescriptions.” SGMC wants to promote awareness about the importance of keeping accurate records, and learning and understanding about your medications during Medication Safety Week, which is the first week of April.

Two lunch and learn programs are scheduled during Medication Safety Week during which licensed pharmacists from SGMC and Chancy Drugs will discuss the importance of medication safety and take questions from the audience.  Brown-bag medication checks will be conducted so participants are encouraged to bring their medications with them.  On Tuesday, April 1 at noon, the program will be held at the Lake Park YMCA, 5285 Mill Store Road.  The second opportunity to enjoy this program will be at South Georgia Medical Center’s Dining Rooms 1 & 2, 2501 North Patterson Street, Valdosta on Wednesday, April 2 from noon until 1pm.  Registration is encouraged for these programs and can be made by calling SGMC’s Community Health Promotions at 229.259.4422.  Lunch will be provided at both programs.

Each year in the United States, over 700,000 visits to the emergency departments are from the misuse of medication. And, many adverse drug events are preventable. Generally safe when used as prescribed, there are risks in taking any medicine.  In fact, over two-thirds of all doctor visits end with a prescription written.

“Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications are used to treat and manage the symptoms of diseases and help relieve pain and suffering,” explains Cindy Vickery, Registered Pharmacist and Pharmacy Director, SGMC. “But if used incorrectly can result in injury or even death. Patients and caregivers can help reduce the risk of harm from medicines by learning about and practicing medication safety.”

Hugh Chancy, owner of Chancy Drugs, currently serves as the first Vice President of the National Community Pharmacy Association, as well as on Georgia’s Pharmacy Association Board.  He is passionate about educating the public regarding the importance of medication safety and improving medication adherence.  “Communication is key with our patients,” states Chancy. “It is essential that people are well informed about their medications, possible side effects, and how to properly take their medicines.  We are excited to work with SGMC in providing this much-needed education to the community.”

Source: SGMC Press Release