TEL: 425.673.5200
Frequently Asked Questions
Services
What type of pill packaging is available?
Bubble Cards - Also known as blister cards or bingo cards, this packaging has plastic bubbles and can usually hold a month's supply. Pills are pushed through the foil sealed on the back of the card.
Strip Packs - Medication doses are grouped by date and time and are packaged into small, tear-able clear plastic bags.
How are your pharmacists involved in the medication review process?
Pharmacists check every filled prescription twice before it goes out for delivery. They also visit communities to consult with nursing staff about proper administration, medication storage, and to provide recommendations for optimizing medication.
Does Mercury offer vaccines?
Yes, our pharmacists coordinate clinics within communities where they are able to administer vaccines to residents.
Refills
Can my routine medications be refilled automatically?
Yes, most facilities can be put on auto-refill or "Cycle". All routine medications at the community will all start on the same day lasting for a 28 or 30-day span. An active order or refill authorization from the physician is required for us to automatically fill and deliver these Cycle medications.
Which medications are not on Cycle?
Generally, medications that are controlled substances, powders, liquids, topicals, inhalers, or taken as needed are not on Cycle. This varies between communities, so please ask your account manager for more details.
Who requests refills of my medications when I need them?
All medication refill requests should be made by the facility staff. As nursing staff are the ones handling and administering your medications, they are also responsible for calling in refills at least 3-4 days before medication runs out. If a resident manages their medications independently, it is their responsibility to call us at least 3-4 days before the medication runs out to request a refill.
When will my medication be delivered?
Mercury's shipping and delivery teams make delivery trips to communities every day. Residents of skilled nursing can expect their new orders the same day they are requested. Residents of adult family homes can expect their new orders the day after they are requested. Delivery for assisted living facilities depends on the community and may be same day or next day. New orders of antibiotics or anything given "STAT" priority will be delivered the same day. Ask your community for their designated delivery time to better estimate when you will be receiving your medications.
Billing
Can I set up a recurring payment toward my account?
Yes, autopay can be set up HERE with a credit card or bank account. These withdrawals will always be the amount due on your invoice for that month.
Are there late fees if I miss the due date?
Payments toward accounts are always due the same month the billing statements are received. Mercury will only charge late fees on delinquent accounts after 30 days.
Do you take my plan?
We take most insurance plans including Kaiser Permanente, Humana, United Health, AARP, Medicaid, and Medicare Part D.
What is the "coverage gap"?
Most Medicare prescription plans have a coverage gap, also known as the "donut hole". The coverage gap begins after you and your drug plan have collectively spent a certain amount towards covered drugs. Upon reaching this limit, your insurance will temporarily stop covering medication costs until the coverage year resets or your spend the maximum out-of-pocket amount set by your insurance company. Once you reach your out-of-pocket maximum, you are in catastrophic coverage and they resume covering claims.