About myCare Start
myCare Start is an evidence-based health service in Switzerland that supports patients who are starting a new long-term medication. Developed for use in community pharmacies in collaboration with physicians, the service is designed to accompany patients as they begin their treatment, support adherence, and improve communication between healthcare providers. These consultations take place within the first six weeks after starting your new medication and are designed to support you during this important phase of treatment.
During the myCare Start Consultation One, the pharmacist will:
- assist the patient in understanding the new medication and what to expect from it
- explore subtle ways to associate the treatment with daily routines
- address any early challenges or side effects
- provide space for the patient to ask questions
- coordinate with the prescribing physician, if necessary.
myCare Start Consultation Two offers an opportunity to:
- reflect on the patient’s experience with the medication
- assess and discuss any changes, improvements, or new concerns
- adjust strategies to meet the patient’s needs
- strengthen the patient’s confidence in managing the treatment in the long term.
Patients may be accompanied by a family member, caregiver, or trusted person during the consultations.
At the end of the consultation process, the pharmacist prepares a brief report summarizing the discussions and any relevant observations. This report is shared with the patient’s prescribing physician to support coordinated care.
Who is eligible for myCare Start service?
The myCare Start service is intended for anyone who is initiating a new medication prescribed by their doctor for the treatment of:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Hyperlipidaemia (high blood cholesterol levels)
- Diabetes
- Respiratory diseases (asthma or COPD)
- Depression.
If you want to find out more about myCare Start service, please watch this video (available in French, German and Italian).
Research and Evaluation
Ongoing research plays a central role in ensuring that health services like myCare Start are both effective and responsive to the needs of patients and communities. The myCare Start service is currently being evaluated through a national research project the myCare Start-Implementation study, coordinated by the University of Geneva. To learn more about this evaluation, including its goals and how it is being conducted, please visit the section “Evaluation of myCare Start service (myCare Start-Implementation study)”