What You Need to Know About Medication Refills
The Refill Challenge
Did you know that over 60% of Americans take at least one prescription, yet many struggle with understanding their clinic's refill policies? At Innovative Urgent Care & Family Health Clinics, we created a Medication Refill Policy to ensure safe, timely, and effective care. This blog simplifies that policy—so you know what to expect and how to stay on track with your treatment.
Why We Have a Refill Policy
Our medication refill policy is more than a process—it’s a wellness strategy. By following it, we:
Help patients stay consistent with treatment
Prevent avoidable urgent care visits
Reduce hospitalizations related to medication mismanagement or gaps in care
There will be no exceptions to this policy. This is especially true for controlled substances, where the law and clinical best practices require strict adherence for your safety and our legal protection.
Your Safety Comes First
Confirms meds are still appropriate
Identifies side effects or needed lab work
Supporting Treatment Success
Enables dose adjustments and specialist referrals
Legal Responsibility
Controlled substances require extra regulation and monitoring
Common Questions, Answered
"Why can't I get a refill over the weekend?"
We only process refill requests during business hours to ensure proper review and patient safety.
"Pharmacy says you haven’t responded."
They may have sent an automated request. If you’re overdue for labs or visits, we can’t approve it without an appointment.
How to Request a Refill
Check Eligibility: Recent appointment, labs, and safe medication history
Submit via Patient Fusion: Allow 72 business hours
We Review: Approved refills go to your pharmacy electronically
If Needed: You may be asked to schedule a follow-up
Learn how to use our portal here.
Special Medication Guidelines
The prescribing and refill policies for all controlled substances are governed by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). These regulations are designed to ensure public safety and prevent the misuse or diversion of these substances. As a result, our clinic strictly adheres to these federal guidelines without exception.
We do not refill specialty medications prescribed by other primary care providers or specialists such as cardiologists, pain management specialists, oncologists, rheumatologists, or neurologists. You will need to follow up directly with the prescribing provider to ensure the specialist is properly managing your condition.
We Do Not Refill:
Narcotics (Norco, Oxycodone), benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan), stimulants (Adderall)
Require Appointments:
Sleep aids (Ambien, Lunesta)
Testosterone (Any form)
Weight Loss Aids (Phentermine)
HRT & Thyroid Therapy:
Require follow-ups every 3–6 months and recent labs. Book labs 5 days before your appointment. Learn more.
Refill Tips to Avoid Delays
Request refills 7–10 days before you run out
Use the portal to avoid phone tag
Book regular appointments to stay current and well-monitored
Real-Life Impact
Patient A missed their labs; we required a visit before refilling their diabetes medication. Labs revealed high A1c, leading to life-saving adjustments.
Patient B was taking meds from multiple sources. A required follow-up revealed a dangerous interaction.
Why This Policy Builds Trust
Our policy helps you receive personalized, evidence-based primary care near you. It ensures:
Fewer delays
Safer outcomes
More proactive wellness
FAQs
Emergency refill? Ask your pharmacist for a temporary supply.
How often do I need a visit? Every 3–6 months, depending on your condition.
Can I refill everything at once? We try, but some meds require different labs or timelines.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive
Medication refills aren’t just paperwork—they’re a part of your treatment journey. Stay ahead by scheduling follow-ups, monitoring your medications, and utilizing our tools, such as Patient Fusion.
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The Innovative Urgent Care & Family Health Clinics Team
