The Pharmacy Department at Valley Hospital not only provides the medications used in the hospital, we are the medication use experts.

The Pharmacy Department works with the physicians and nurses to assure that the medications used in the hospital are safe and effective.

The Pharmacy also provides information on the best ways to give medications, to minimize the possibility of drug or food interactions, and avoid medication errors.

Valley Hospital pharmacists make regular rounds in the patient care areas, and participate in interdisciplinary rounds where we consult on current and alternate drug therapies. They also provide discharge counseling to patients who need help understanding their medications.

Below are some things you can do, as a patient, to help your caregivers provide you with the best treatment regarding your medications.

• Bring a list of the current medications and dosages you are using at home. These should include medications prescribed by your physician and those purchased over the counter as well as herbal medications and nutraceuticals.
• Inform your caregivers of any medications you cannot take.
• Bring the name and telephone number of the pharmacy you use in case there are any questions about your prescriptions.
• Ask questions about any new medications you may receive if you don't understand what they are for or why they are being given to you.