The other day I was having a long talk with a friend about a whole host of things- we started discussing the economy, this lead to health insurance, and that of course lead to health care reform and prescription drug benefits. Nothing like a nice relaxing set of topics, no?!?!?!
In any case, we talked a little about the drug companies, who in response to the bad economic conditions have offered to provide certain medications for free- the first two I saw adds for were Lipitor and Viagara- I am glad that drug companies will occasionally take some social responsibility. I can only hope that drug companies, insurers, lawyers, and doctors will finally be motivated to do something productive to reduce health care costs while maintaining quality care to all Americans, and still making sure I can pay my bills (well- of course I mean all physicians.)
In any case, this lead me to think about the way the economy has effected my patients- I can think of at least 30 patients who have lost their jobs, their insurance, or both- and as a result they have not been coming to the office for follow ups, and several have told me they have discontinued their medications.
This is problematic for so many reasons: Some of these medications can be life sustaining, some cannot simply be discontinued without potentially serious side effects, and in the case of my practice- the discontinuation of medications can have direct consequences on both an individuals quality of life, and their ability to remain at work as their pain returns.
If you are faced with discontinuing your medications due to fiscal circumstances, I have a few suggestions:
1) Check with your physician before discontinuing your medications. Me sure there is no recommended protocol for stopping their use.
2) Ask your physician if there are substitute medications which could be used which may have a lower copay/deductible, or could be outright purchased for less.
3) Contact the manufacturer of your medications and see if they have any discount programs available- Some companies have temporary plans available to get people medications during economic hardship.
4) Keep careful records of all of your drug expenses, and be sure to deduct them at the end of the year- at least you know you will get some of the money back.
I know we will all get through this difficult time. Please share some of your thoughts and suggestions on how you are dealing with the recession- I know my viewers will appreciate it.
Be well.
