Georgia pharmacists are taking steps to alleviate the concerns of their patients regarding Y2K and potential problems with obtaining medications. As part of White House Council convened to study Y2K problems, a group of more than 90 representatives of the drug distribution system, including American Pharmaceutical Association (APhA) representatives, other professional health care associations, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, hospitals, insurers, and patient advocacy groups have met extensively and concluded that patients should have uninterrupted access to medications in the new year, provided they do not stockpile or hoard extraordinary quantities of medication.

Patients are encouraged to obtain refills of medication as usual, when they have a 5-to-7 day supply remaining. The pharmaceutical industry always has back up plans and extra reserves, so stocking up on medications is unnecessary. Further, most medications have a limited shelf life and may expire before patients would use them.

Local pharmacies and the pharmaceutical industry as a whole have extensive back up plans to handle any unforeseen problems that may occur. The pharmaceutical industry has extensive experience in handling supply disruptions caused by weather, natural disasters and epidemics. These contingency plans have been used as a guideline for Y2K contingency plans.

Pharmacies have access to ample supplies of prescription and nonprescription drugs. The medication pipeline normally operates with several months of stock in inventory. If unforeseen circumstances occur and the pharmacy runs out of a particular product, additional supplies should be accessible quickly from elsewhere in the system.

The Georgia Pharmacy Association offers the following suggestions for patients to assist in a smooth year-end transition and as good general medical practices:

• Make a list of prescription and important nonprescription medications you and your family are currently taking. Include the name of the medication, the family member taking it, the dosage and the prescribing physician. Your pharmacist may assist you in compiling this list.

• Obtain your refills as you normally would, when you have a 5-7 day supply remaining. There is no need to stock up on medications. Extra supplies of drugs are normally available within the system.

• As with any other time, you should keep evidence of your insurance coverage with you, especially if your insurance plan will change in the new year. Be sure to provide the new information to your physician and pharmacist. Keep records of your insurance claims and carry your insurance card with you.

• Do not stockpile prescription medications. Pharmacists must exercise professional judgement to ensure that the medication needs of all Georgians are not jeopardized. Patients should be reassured that their pharmacist will continue to provide care regardless if it is 1999 or the year 2000.

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