This short film helps families understand why some medicines need to be taken for many months or years, even when a person does not feel sick. Through a staged conversation featuring Dr. Fern Hauk the video explains how long-term medications can help manage conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, while also preventing future health problems like heart attacks or strokes. The film also encourages patients to ask questions, plan ahead for refills, and talk with their doctor if they have side effects, trouble getting to the pharmacy, or concerns about cost.

Thank you to Dr. Mansi Trivedi, Dr. Jessica Row, and Dr. Fern Hauck for developing the script; Pooja Viswesh, Marjan Omranian, and Rebecca Lerdue for creating and editing the video; Maryam Hamza for appearing in the video; and Ayla Kishi and Ebrahimi for providing the voice-over.

Video Script

NARRATOR: "At the end of a doctor’s visit, your provider may suggest starting a new medicine. Medicines can be taken for a few days or weeks, but also for months, even years. In this short video, we’ll talk about why long-term medications are important, and how you can manage them."

PATIENT: Doctor, why do we sometimes need to take medicine for such a long time?

DOCTOR: Great question. Some health conditions don’t go away on their own and need ongoing treatment. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or even stress. Even if you don’t feel sick, these conditions can still affect your heart and other parts of your body over time. Sometimes we give medicine not just to treat illness, but to prevent future problems—like heart attacks or strokes.

PATIENT: If the doctor gives us a new medication, what should we pay attention to?

DOCTOR: It’s always okay to ask questions! Here are some good ones to ask your doctor: What is this medicine for? How long will I take it? Will I need refills?” If the doctor says you’ll be taking it for a long time, it helps to plan ahead—especially for refills and reminders.

PATIENT: What if we run out of medicine?

DOCTOR: First, finishing all the pills in your bottle does not mean that the medication is complete. So, when you see your bottle beginning to run low, you can go to your pharmacy to obtain a new bottle. If your pharmacy does not have a new bottle for you, then you should call your doctor’s office to request a refill. Importantly, if you are experiencing side effects from your medication, if you are struggling to get to the pharmacy, or if the medication is too expensive, please be sure to tell your doctor.