The Fishtown Medicine refill policy treats every prescription refill as a clinical audit, not an automatic renewal. We aim for the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, and we deprescribe whenever your labs and lifestyle make it safe to do so.
At Fishtown Medicine, medications are tools, not long-term crutches. We aim for the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed. Every refill is a chance to check whether a medication is still serving your health goals.
What is the Fishtown Medicine clinical philosophy on refills?
We do not do reflexive renewals. When you request a refill, we do not just click a button. We perform a quick clinical audit of your labs, history, and current symptoms. If there is a safer or more effective option, or if it is time to consider deprescribing, we will reach out to discuss it with you.
What does the refill audit process include?
Every refill request prompts a review of:
- Relevant Labs: Are your markers (for example, blood pressure, A1C, lipids) stable on this dose?
- Side Effects: Are you noticing subtle changes in mood, sleep, or digestion?
- Necessity: Is the underlying condition managed well enough that we can consider a lower dose or a different Treatment Strategy?
How do I request a medication refill?
To make refills fast and accurate, we use a streamlined process inside the Ultralight app:
- Take a Photo: Send a clear photo of your medication bottle or packaging.
- Verify the Label: Make sure the medication name, dose, strength, and frequency are visible.
- Provide Context: If it is a medication we did not originally prescribe, share why you are taking it and how you have felt since starting it.
We confirm once the order has been transmitted to your pharmacy (usually within one business day).
Deprescribing: The Goal of Growth
Our success is often measured by what we can stop prescribing. As you implement the GER·O·SPAN and improve metabolic function, your need for some medications (particularly blood pressure or blood sugar agents) may decrease. We specialize in safely tapering medications as your health improves.
Guidelines from the Clinic
Actionable Steps for Managed Care
Streamline your pharmacy experience.
- Check Your Supply: Request refills 3 to 5 days before you run out to allow for pharmacy processing.
- Use One Pharmacy: Keeping all prescriptions at one location (Fishtown Pharmacy or your local CVS) helps prevent drug-drug interactions.
- Update Your List: Every 6 months, use the Ultralight app to confirm your current medication and supplement list is up to date in our records.
Dr. Ash is a board-certified internal medicine physician specializing in preventive medicine and healthspan optimization at Fishtown Medicine in Philadelphia.
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Dr. Ash reads every intake himself, and answers questions personally - usually within a few hours.
