amethystma
05-03-2009, 02:02 AM
At my PM appt today the NP eluded to the fact that a pharmacist called to express concern about a "history of early refills."
Yes, there were two early refills since I began PM two years ago.Both were using insurance and dropped off and filled on day 23....both pre-approved in advance by MD in writing due to travel for work purposes....the only other alternative would have been for a family member to fill script and fed ex them to me, that made me nervous.
I offered the PM written documentation of my travel (the conference where I was to present) as corroborative data which he declined stating I am a trusted patient.i
I am also UA'd monthly as is every patient in the practice. It is a universal policy, there have never been any issues.
I do change appts often, but never move them forward or advance them. If I learn of a work conflict, I call ASAP and take the closest appt to my original appt;sometimes its ahead of time other times it's after the original appt. I state to the receptionist why I am rescheduling and it has never been discussed as an issue.
I use two pharmacies, again with the expressed consent of the PM as I use two differerent patches and BT meds; the patch brand (non generic) is not available at the chain and the patch strength (12 mcg is on constant backorder with the independent.) I get my BT through the chain as the indie rarely has sufficient quantity in stock.
I am always polite and cordial and appreciative to the pharmacists when I call ahead to order, I think it's the "little things" that allow you to develop a rapport with them.
Bottom line: I want to know which pharmacy/pharmacist did this and NEVER go there again.
I remained calm and appropriate at my PM appt as I did nothing wrong or illicit, but I am fuming as I feel a pharmacist is judging me as a young (32 yo) healthy looking woman filling narcotics scripts. If he only knew I get my regular (non narcotic meds) through mail, he would see my profile which consists of multiple meds to address the serious medical issues I have.
The PM NP was great and told me not to worry, but it's in my nature.
I am not going to discuss it with her again.
If I requested copies of records from pharmacies, would there be an entry about a pharmacist's concerns?
If I request a complete copy of PM records as I have done before to get a second and third opinion, might there be a reference there as to the source?
I am concerned that there may be a blemish on my otherwise stellar PM participation and this scares me as I may be moving and in need of identifying a new practice.
I understand the need for hypervigilance. I follow all the rules, I do what I am told.
But, I feel like I have a right to know who initiated this complaint, but I fear that in doing so I may shine a brighter light on the issue than would be prudent,
I would welcome your thoughts....
Best,
Amethyst
Yes, there were two early refills since I began PM two years ago.Both were using insurance and dropped off and filled on day 23....both pre-approved in advance by MD in writing due to travel for work purposes....the only other alternative would have been for a family member to fill script and fed ex them to me, that made me nervous.
I offered the PM written documentation of my travel (the conference where I was to present) as corroborative data which he declined stating I am a trusted patient.i
I am also UA'd monthly as is every patient in the practice. It is a universal policy, there have never been any issues.
I do change appts often, but never move them forward or advance them. If I learn of a work conflict, I call ASAP and take the closest appt to my original appt;sometimes its ahead of time other times it's after the original appt. I state to the receptionist why I am rescheduling and it has never been discussed as an issue.
I use two pharmacies, again with the expressed consent of the PM as I use two differerent patches and BT meds; the patch brand (non generic) is not available at the chain and the patch strength (12 mcg is on constant backorder with the independent.) I get my BT through the chain as the indie rarely has sufficient quantity in stock.
I am always polite and cordial and appreciative to the pharmacists when I call ahead to order, I think it's the "little things" that allow you to develop a rapport with them.
Bottom line: I want to know which pharmacy/pharmacist did this and NEVER go there again.
I remained calm and appropriate at my PM appt as I did nothing wrong or illicit, but I am fuming as I feel a pharmacist is judging me as a young (32 yo) healthy looking woman filling narcotics scripts. If he only knew I get my regular (non narcotic meds) through mail, he would see my profile which consists of multiple meds to address the serious medical issues I have.
The PM NP was great and told me not to worry, but it's in my nature.
I am not going to discuss it with her again.
If I requested copies of records from pharmacies, would there be an entry about a pharmacist's concerns?
If I request a complete copy of PM records as I have done before to get a second and third opinion, might there be a reference there as to the source?
I am concerned that there may be a blemish on my otherwise stellar PM participation and this scares me as I may be moving and in need of identifying a new practice.
I understand the need for hypervigilance. I follow all the rules, I do what I am told.
But, I feel like I have a right to know who initiated this complaint, but I fear that in doing so I may shine a brighter light on the issue than would be prudent,
I would welcome your thoughts....
Best,
Amethyst
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Executor
05-03-2009, 01:21 PM
You have every right to be upset...Just another example of some rabid pharmacist with the Barney Fife syndrome. The good thing here is that you're in excellent standing with your Doc. Here's what I would do:
(1) First and foremost, I'd find another pharmacy....Preferably an independent. Independent pharmacies are owned by the pharmacist and really strive for customer service. These chain pharmacists could care less if they drive off business.
I also think it really pays to develop a relationship with the pharmacist and bring them under the umbrella a bit and explain your condition(s). I'm sure you're probably right in that the pharmacist sees you as a seemingly healthy person. But, as we all know, you can't judge a book by it's cover.
These chain pharmacists also get worked to death....Very long shifts with few breaks....Many have to work entire weekends, 9am- 10 or 11pm, both days. Thus, they get cranky and have little tolerance for the small things.
(2) If you want to know your refill history, all you have to do is call the pharmacy and tell them you need a print out of all your prescriptions for the last year (or you can request two years) and tell them it's for insurance reasons. This print out will capture all your fills, including the meds in question. The dates will be listed, so you can see yourself what they're looking at. You could also tell them it's for your taxes if you wanted...Tell them you need documentation for your deductions.
If you don't want to call the pharmacy that you use, call another location (of the chain) and ask them for the information. They can print off your prescription records very easily and you pick them up....Usually you have to sign for them, just like you have to sign for a Rx.
(3) If you want to keep using the same location for whatever reason, you could find out who the PIC (pharmacist in charge) is and request a meeting...And run this by him/her. Tell them that someone called and explain exactly what you told the Doc in a very professional low key way...And tell them a bit about your overall condition...And explain that you have nothing to be worried or concerned about, but that you thought you should explain what's going on so that there are no future problems.
I'd explain that the Doc confirmed that all is fine and there are no issues there. You could even bring in your newly obtained print out for documentation. I think the PIC would be appreciative if you did this, especially if it was done in a very professional, non threatening way. If it turns out to be this person who reported you, then they'll have a better understanding of things. If it was one of the other pharmacists, then the PIC can talk to them about the situation. This type of stuff almost always happens with younger, more rouge pharmacists, so I doubt it was the PIC.
Whatever you decide to do, I would not stay at the same pharmacy and without addressing the situation....Unless you decide moving forward by only filling on the exact day required....Which may be hard for you to do given your work schedule / travel & etc. Pharmacists need to look at the overall picture, not just 1 or 2 refills. Again, a reason why you need to speak to them if you plan on staying put.
If you elect to go to an independent, you can introduce yourself to the owner and tell him/her that you're moving there because you've heard great things about them and that you're tired of the hassle of dealing with chains. Trust me on this....They've heard all the stories and will probably treat you very, very well.
Best of luck to you.
Regards,
Ex
(1) First and foremost, I'd find another pharmacy....Preferably an independent. Independent pharmacies are owned by the pharmacist and really strive for customer service. These chain pharmacists could care less if they drive off business.
I also think it really pays to develop a relationship with the pharmacist and bring them under the umbrella a bit and explain your condition(s). I'm sure you're probably right in that the pharmacist sees you as a seemingly healthy person. But, as we all know, you can't judge a book by it's cover.
These chain pharmacists also get worked to death....Very long shifts with few breaks....Many have to work entire weekends, 9am- 10 or 11pm, both days. Thus, they get cranky and have little tolerance for the small things.
(2) If you want to know your refill history, all you have to do is call the pharmacy and tell them you need a print out of all your prescriptions for the last year (or you can request two years) and tell them it's for insurance reasons. This print out will capture all your fills, including the meds in question. The dates will be listed, so you can see yourself what they're looking at. You could also tell them it's for your taxes if you wanted...Tell them you need documentation for your deductions.
If you don't want to call the pharmacy that you use, call another location (of the chain) and ask them for the information. They can print off your prescription records very easily and you pick them up....Usually you have to sign for them, just like you have to sign for a Rx.
(3) If you want to keep using the same location for whatever reason, you could find out who the PIC (pharmacist in charge) is and request a meeting...And run this by him/her. Tell them that someone called and explain exactly what you told the Doc in a very professional low key way...And tell them a bit about your overall condition...And explain that you have nothing to be worried or concerned about, but that you thought you should explain what's going on so that there are no future problems.
I'd explain that the Doc confirmed that all is fine and there are no issues there. You could even bring in your newly obtained print out for documentation. I think the PIC would be appreciative if you did this, especially if it was done in a very professional, non threatening way. If it turns out to be this person who reported you, then they'll have a better understanding of things. If it was one of the other pharmacists, then the PIC can talk to them about the situation. This type of stuff almost always happens with younger, more rouge pharmacists, so I doubt it was the PIC.
Whatever you decide to do, I would not stay at the same pharmacy and without addressing the situation....Unless you decide moving forward by only filling on the exact day required....Which may be hard for you to do given your work schedule / travel & etc. Pharmacists need to look at the overall picture, not just 1 or 2 refills. Again, a reason why you need to speak to them if you plan on staying put.
If you elect to go to an independent, you can introduce yourself to the owner and tell him/her that you're moving there because you've heard great things about them and that you're tired of the hassle of dealing with chains. Trust me on this....They've heard all the stories and will probably treat you very, very well.
Best of luck to you.
Regards,
Ex
ThreeBadDiscs
05-03-2009, 06:42 PM
Hi!
I just wanted to quickly echo Ex's sentiments on the independent pharmacies. I had used a couple of chains before switching to an independent. I switched because the independent was right next door to my PM doc's office, so it was stricly out of convenience. But what I realized after a couple of months is the amazing difference in care. They know my name and always say, "Hi, Mrs. X" when I walk in the door, my Rx's are ready within 10 minutes, and I've NEVER gotten "the look" for filling large quantities of narcotics, or anything of the sort. This attitude is not only from the pharmacist, but from everyone in the store. They are WONDERFUL. So I would definitely suggest sticking with an independent.
As for finding out who called your doc's office, you could try requesting your records from the doc's office, but be aware that the info you want may not be in the records they give you. Each office is different, but frequently you only get the typed or dictated notes, and not the handwritten notes (which is where this notation may be) or the "other stuff" in your chart (i.e., if a pharmacy sent a letter or something like that). You MAY get all that stuff, but in my experience it's been rare. But again, may be worth trying. Just make sure to word your request something to the effect of: "Please provide me with a COMPLETE COPY of my ENTIRE CHART." That's the best you can do, and what they give you from there will be up to them.
Good luck, and I'm sorry this happened to you. But like Ex said, it sounds like you're pretty lucky that you're in with a good doctor who seems to trust you implicitly. Take care.
-Liz
I just wanted to quickly echo Ex's sentiments on the independent pharmacies. I had used a couple of chains before switching to an independent. I switched because the independent was right next door to my PM doc's office, so it was stricly out of convenience. But what I realized after a couple of months is the amazing difference in care. They know my name and always say, "Hi, Mrs. X" when I walk in the door, my Rx's are ready within 10 minutes, and I've NEVER gotten "the look" for filling large quantities of narcotics, or anything of the sort. This attitude is not only from the pharmacist, but from everyone in the store. They are WONDERFUL. So I would definitely suggest sticking with an independent.
As for finding out who called your doc's office, you could try requesting your records from the doc's office, but be aware that the info you want may not be in the records they give you. Each office is different, but frequently you only get the typed or dictated notes, and not the handwritten notes (which is where this notation may be) or the "other stuff" in your chart (i.e., if a pharmacy sent a letter or something like that). You MAY get all that stuff, but in my experience it's been rare. But again, may be worth trying. Just make sure to word your request something to the effect of: "Please provide me with a COMPLETE COPY of my ENTIRE CHART." That's the best you can do, and what they give you from there will be up to them.
Good luck, and I'm sorry this happened to you. But like Ex said, it sounds like you're pretty lucky that you're in with a good doctor who seems to trust you implicitly. Take care.
-Liz
eyesworld
05-03-2009, 10:01 PM
I agree with everything that Ex stated, but specifically #3-talking to the PIC. I had a problem with a tech years ago and never filled again at that pharmacy for my meds. But my husband didn't want to change.
A few months ago the PIC asked me why I don't use them anymore and I told her about the tech embarrassing me in front of a lot of people yelling out, "it's too soon to fill this narcotic prescription!!"
She said that I should have told her immediately about it and that it was unprofessional behavior, etc.
Also, while I now use an independent pharmacy, a lot of the chains have websites where you can have access to your records after you register.
Why can't you just ask the doc which pharmacy it was? Unless you just don't want to bring it up again....
A few months ago the PIC asked me why I don't use them anymore and I told her about the tech embarrassing me in front of a lot of people yelling out, "it's too soon to fill this narcotic prescription!!"
She said that I should have told her immediately about it and that it was unprofessional behavior, etc.
Also, while I now use an independent pharmacy, a lot of the chains have websites where you can have access to your records after you register.
Why can't you just ask the doc which pharmacy it was? Unless you just don't want to bring it up again....
amethystma
05-04-2009, 09:41 AM
I agree with everything that Ex stated, but specifically #3-talking to the PIC. I had a problem with a tech years ago and never filled again at that pharmacy for my meds. But my husband didn't want to change.
A few months ago the PIC asked me why I don't use them anymore and I told her about the tech embarrassing me in front of a lot of people yelling out, "it's too soon to fill this narcotic prescription!!"
She said that I should have told her immediately about it and that it was unprofessional behavior, etc.
Also, while I now use an independent pharmacy, a lot of the chains have websites where you can have access to your records after you register.
Why can't you just ask the doc which pharmacy it was? Unless you just don't want to bring it up again....
I almost feel like if I bring it up again,I am making a big deal out of it. I guess I'm paranoid that if I make a big deal out of it the PM willl think there's something going on.....There isn't but, if I just like "normal" things will stay that way......
It's insane the things we have to agonize about just to try to function daily.....
A few months ago the PIC asked me why I don't use them anymore and I told her about the tech embarrassing me in front of a lot of people yelling out, "it's too soon to fill this narcotic prescription!!"
She said that I should have told her immediately about it and that it was unprofessional behavior, etc.
Also, while I now use an independent pharmacy, a lot of the chains have websites where you can have access to your records after you register.
Why can't you just ask the doc which pharmacy it was? Unless you just don't want to bring it up again....
I almost feel like if I bring it up again,I am making a big deal out of it. I guess I'm paranoid that if I make a big deal out of it the PM willl think there's something going on.....There isn't but, if I just like "normal" things will stay that way......
It's insane the things we have to agonize about just to try to function daily.....
bullymom
05-04-2009, 11:58 AM
And the beat goes on!! I get so tired of hearing about these stories where pain patients are constantly judged. It doesn't matter that you have an exemplary record with the clinic for 2 years....one little issue, and doubt is cast. I know how you feel, you just want things to be "normal". Why is it when my husband needs his insulin, it is expedited to arrive the next day?? Always!! When I need my pm refilled, which is a new script every time, the pharmacy even wants to question "when" the rx was mailed? Of course the rx was post dated, they all are when you have mail service pharmacy.
So sorry, didn't mean to rant on, but I guess this post touched a nerve. Also didn't mean to hijack your post. I just wanted to say, I understand completely how you feel, I really wish it didn't have to be that way. Hang in there, you have done nothing wrong, and this will likely blow over quickly. PM clinics have many abuse issues that they have to deal with. Just keep doing things as your suppose to, and I think eventually you will find out which pharmacy did this. Don't give them one more second of your time worrying about them. It's so very hard not to worry when something like this happens:confused:
Have a great day,
Bullymom:wave:
So sorry, didn't mean to rant on, but I guess this post touched a nerve. Also didn't mean to hijack your post. I just wanted to say, I understand completely how you feel, I really wish it didn't have to be that way. Hang in there, you have done nothing wrong, and this will likely blow over quickly. PM clinics have many abuse issues that they have to deal with. Just keep doing things as your suppose to, and I think eventually you will find out which pharmacy did this. Don't give them one more second of your time worrying about them. It's so very hard not to worry when something like this happens:confused:
Have a great day,
Bullymom:wave:
Executor
05-04-2009, 03:13 PM
I almost feel like if I bring it up again,I am making a big deal out of it. I guess I'm paranoid that if I make a big deal out of it the PM willl think there's something going on.
I can understand why you might feel this way, but I would talk to the PIC in a way where you're not really upset / mad, but in way where you are a bit concerned....From a position of asking questions, rather than complaining...Asking for clarification. I would tell him that you are in a lot of pain, and have some tough days, and quite frankly, don't need any more problems in your life, and you don't understand why this is an issue for the pharmacy....That you're Doc is perfectly fine with everything, and told you not to worry....But that you wanted to be upfront and talk to them about it whereas there aren't any future issues......And, if this is going to be a problem, please tell me and I'll go somewhere else. Position the whole thing like you're more confused than complaining. You will get your point across, and the PIC will have to pretty much answer why this happened. And, I'm willing to bet that it wouldn't ever happen again at that point.
The bottom line is that you can't have the pharmacy calling your Docs office...Could make life difficult for you down the road at some point. Personally, I'd nip it in the bud, but you know your situation best, and you have to live with it, not us. I don't mean that in a crass way, but that it's easy for us to all give advice....We're behind the computer and not in your shoes. I'm sure you'll make the right decision.
Take care, and hope you don't have any more problems.
Regards,
Ex
I can understand why you might feel this way, but I would talk to the PIC in a way where you're not really upset / mad, but in way where you are a bit concerned....From a position of asking questions, rather than complaining...Asking for clarification. I would tell him that you are in a lot of pain, and have some tough days, and quite frankly, don't need any more problems in your life, and you don't understand why this is an issue for the pharmacy....That you're Doc is perfectly fine with everything, and told you not to worry....But that you wanted to be upfront and talk to them about it whereas there aren't any future issues......And, if this is going to be a problem, please tell me and I'll go somewhere else. Position the whole thing like you're more confused than complaining. You will get your point across, and the PIC will have to pretty much answer why this happened. And, I'm willing to bet that it wouldn't ever happen again at that point.
The bottom line is that you can't have the pharmacy calling your Docs office...Could make life difficult for you down the road at some point. Personally, I'd nip it in the bud, but you know your situation best, and you have to live with it, not us. I don't mean that in a crass way, but that it's easy for us to all give advice....We're behind the computer and not in your shoes. I'm sure you'll make the right decision.
Take care, and hope you don't have any more problems.
Regards,
Ex
slipperyslope
05-05-2009, 02:03 PM
I would be mortified if this happened to me. when I get my scripts filled, they often say, okay to fill on 4/22 but can't start taking medication until 4/27 I do this on occasion and its never been an issue. sometimes its at 25 or 27 days, or even 28 days. I have a great rapport with my pharmacist and there staff. I bring them fresh apples off my tree each year and fresh strawberries and blackberries that we also grow. this helps my rapport with them. they always call me by my first name when I walk in and ask me how I am. they know what my pain condition is and I am VERY friendly to them. so I would start doing that or get to a new pharmacy. You really need to make friends with these people and let them know what your pain condition is. It just helps everything. One time my pharmacy was out of my B/T meds. they gave me 6 pills to get me by for a few days, which I thought was really cool of them. they did short my new RX by 6 pills but I had expected that. you see they need to be an extention of your medical care. It sounds like you didn't have a good rapport with that pharmacist so I suggest you get one going or switch as that is NOT cool at all, and things like this can get you dismissed from your PM Clinic. Its very scary and I am so sorry this guy did that to you. It was very wrong of him. he is the pharmacy police and he has big issues with narcotics and was trying to get you in trouble. Little does he know you have a good rapport with your PM DR and he wasn't concerned at all. you should do as Ex said, its a good idea and a good plan.
SS
SS
slipperyslope
05-05-2009, 02:11 PM
One more thing I wanted to mention. I had to do this over XMAS last year where I needed my fill 10 days early. this was a big deal and I had a note from my PM Dr and I also went to the pharmacisit and explained this to him, and told him what I was doing, where I was going, and that I know its early and my Dr knows its early but could he do it. He said sure. and my insurance allows for 2 early refills a year for vacations. So its best if this ever happens again to be upfront with the pharmacist and let him know your aware its early but there is a reason for It. This assures your not trying to pull one over on someone since you bring it up ahead of time. That is what I did, did you happen to say anything or did you just present your RX on day 23 and not tell them why it was so early???
amethystma
05-05-2009, 07:53 PM
The doc wrote on the script ok to fill on _____________. Please fill early as pt is out of town.
slipperyslope
05-05-2009, 09:40 PM
oh I didn't realize that. than he had NO RIGHT to call your Dr than. He is looking to get you in trouble is all. I mean he new what the reason was so he was being the pharmacy police. Next time if might be better to talk to him in person if you ever have to fill early again, Just to go over it with him so he doesn't call again. that really is to bad he did that to you.
SS
SS
amethystma
05-05-2009, 10:49 PM
It is so frustrating being a 30 something professional looking woman (I don't look sick or in pain to those who don't know me!!!)
I don't believe that I am being paranoid, but they think 'she doesn't need the meds, what does she need them for?'
It is not their job to legitimize my pain meds.
Although I fully acknowledge that drug diversion and drug abuse of our life- preserving medications is a huge societal issue, the bias that is projected onto us is unacceptable.
My tirade is complete.
Best,
Amethyst
I don't believe that I am being paranoid, but they think 'she doesn't need the meds, what does she need them for?'
It is not their job to legitimize my pain meds.
Although I fully acknowledge that drug diversion and drug abuse of our life- preserving medications is a huge societal issue, the bias that is projected onto us is unacceptable.
My tirade is complete.
Best,
Amethyst
Executor
05-05-2009, 10:58 PM
The doc wrote on the script ok to fill on _____________. Please fill early as pt is out of town.
This is even more alarming now that you posted this development. What probably happened was that the pharmacist just looked on the computer screen and scanned over the last six months to a year of fill dates and noticed a couple of early refills.
Thus, this is a perfect example of judging a book by the cover. The pharmacist who called the Doc only looked at the cover of the book, or the dates on all the refills, and saw a couple of early refills when glancing over all the information. He/she didn't take into account your condition, possible changes in regimen, your overall history, and most importantly, your individual scripts. This ranks up there with pharmacists who question scripts for certain meds and / or qtys without knowing what's going on with the patient....Just by what's written on the paper and looking at the person.
Had he/she taken a bit of time and pulled the hard copies of the scripts, they would have seen for themselves what was going on. Additionally, talk about a "back seat driver".....It should have occurred to whoever glanced over all the dates, that some pharmacist before them filled the scripts in question and obviously saw it fit to do so. Issues with early refills are to be addressed at the time of the script being filled, not down the road somewhere. And, if this was all the same pharmacist, and they just "forgot" the reason(s) for the early refills, then that's even more alarming.
Personally, I would be livid, especially since your Doc spelled it out plain as day. If I were your Doc, I'd also be livid because he spoon fed them with additional information that wasn't even required, and they still managed to cause a problem. Your Doc wasn't even obligated to provide a reason, but rather could have just written on the script "fill on xyz date" and be done with it...Dr's orders. In fact, even less was required....He could have not post dated it at all and it would have been valid the day it was written / dated. When this happens, the pharmacy is to assume a change in regimen and / or condition and this is why the same Doc would write a new script without postdating it. However, your Doc choose to go the extra distance and lay it out very clearly, and someone still managed to overreact.
You really should discuss this with the PIC and / or get a new pharmacy. With friends like these, you certainly don't need any enemies....That's for sure.
Best of luck to you.
Regards,
Ex
This is even more alarming now that you posted this development. What probably happened was that the pharmacist just looked on the computer screen and scanned over the last six months to a year of fill dates and noticed a couple of early refills.
Thus, this is a perfect example of judging a book by the cover. The pharmacist who called the Doc only looked at the cover of the book, or the dates on all the refills, and saw a couple of early refills when glancing over all the information. He/she didn't take into account your condition, possible changes in regimen, your overall history, and most importantly, your individual scripts. This ranks up there with pharmacists who question scripts for certain meds and / or qtys without knowing what's going on with the patient....Just by what's written on the paper and looking at the person.
Had he/she taken a bit of time and pulled the hard copies of the scripts, they would have seen for themselves what was going on. Additionally, talk about a "back seat driver".....It should have occurred to whoever glanced over all the dates, that some pharmacist before them filled the scripts in question and obviously saw it fit to do so. Issues with early refills are to be addressed at the time of the script being filled, not down the road somewhere. And, if this was all the same pharmacist, and they just "forgot" the reason(s) for the early refills, then that's even more alarming.
Personally, I would be livid, especially since your Doc spelled it out plain as day. If I were your Doc, I'd also be livid because he spoon fed them with additional information that wasn't even required, and they still managed to cause a problem. Your Doc wasn't even obligated to provide a reason, but rather could have just written on the script "fill on xyz date" and be done with it...Dr's orders. In fact, even less was required....He could have not post dated it at all and it would have been valid the day it was written / dated. When this happens, the pharmacy is to assume a change in regimen and / or condition and this is why the same Doc would write a new script without postdating it. However, your Doc choose to go the extra distance and lay it out very clearly, and someone still managed to overreact.
You really should discuss this with the PIC and / or get a new pharmacy. With friends like these, you certainly don't need any enemies....That's for sure.
Best of luck to you.
Regards,
Ex
amethystma
05-06-2009, 12:39 AM
Thank you all for your words and ever present support.
Here's the plan:
I made an appt to see the PIC and Pharmacy Manager tomorrow. I want to hear from them if they called the dr and what their concerns were and what is the data that corroborates their concerns.
After I explain my issues and listen politely , I will inform them that I am transferring all of my medications due to their lack of sensitivity and that I do not need the additional stress around the acquisition of medication.
Furthermore, I have a letter written and ready to go to corporate that says they are losing a valued customer who spent X dollars just in medication...not to mention all the incidentals.... in co-pays at the store.
That being said, I went to the independent pharmacy about 30 minutes from my home....the closest one...who filled my Oxy when the crisis was happening and who is able to locate a brand other than Mylan for my patches. I spoke with their PIC who remembered me. I asked if I could speak with her in private. I told her that I was transferring my scripts and wanted to discuss why I take this medication given how cautious I know pharmacists are required to be.
I told her that my pain is related to thoracic neuropathic pain following a PE and that I was just dx'd with lupus.
I told her that I used a pain management contract and offered her a copy that I had brought with me. She seemed surprised, and declined.
I told her the keys points are that I have one prescriber for pain meds only, use one pharmacy only, and am required to have monthly UA (she was shocked by this!)
She commented that I go through a lot. Now, I'm not one looking for a pity party, but it was nice for this woman to affirm that she gets the crap CP patients endure.
She was understanding, entirely professional and non judgmental. She asked that I call around day 21 or 22 so they can order the patches that will be ready for day 30.
I feel good about this outcome and know that I am on the road to making rxs a less stressful experience.
Again, thanks for the pearls of wisdom.
Amethyst
Here's the plan:
I made an appt to see the PIC and Pharmacy Manager tomorrow. I want to hear from them if they called the dr and what their concerns were and what is the data that corroborates their concerns.
After I explain my issues and listen politely , I will inform them that I am transferring all of my medications due to their lack of sensitivity and that I do not need the additional stress around the acquisition of medication.
Furthermore, I have a letter written and ready to go to corporate that says they are losing a valued customer who spent X dollars just in medication...not to mention all the incidentals.... in co-pays at the store.
That being said, I went to the independent pharmacy about 30 minutes from my home....the closest one...who filled my Oxy when the crisis was happening and who is able to locate a brand other than Mylan for my patches. I spoke with their PIC who remembered me. I asked if I could speak with her in private. I told her that I was transferring my scripts and wanted to discuss why I take this medication given how cautious I know pharmacists are required to be.
I told her that my pain is related to thoracic neuropathic pain following a PE and that I was just dx'd with lupus.
I told her that I used a pain management contract and offered her a copy that I had brought with me. She seemed surprised, and declined.
I told her the keys points are that I have one prescriber for pain meds only, use one pharmacy only, and am required to have monthly UA (she was shocked by this!)
She commented that I go through a lot. Now, I'm not one looking for a pity party, but it was nice for this woman to affirm that she gets the crap CP patients endure.
She was understanding, entirely professional and non judgmental. She asked that I call around day 21 or 22 so they can order the patches that will be ready for day 30.
I feel good about this outcome and know that I am on the road to making rxs a less stressful experience.
Again, thanks for the pearls of wisdom.
Amethyst
Executor
05-06-2009, 01:11 AM
Thank you all for your words and ever present support.
Glad to help. Thank you for your kind words.
After I explain my issues and listen politely , I will inform them that I am transferring all of my medications due to their lack of sensitivity and that I do not need the additional stress around the acquisition of medication.
That's a great way to put things into perspective. I would stress that you have done nothing wrong...Have been incredibly compliant, and that your Doc is 100% supportive....And what they have put your through did nothing but cause you anxiety, additional pain, and stress that you do not need.
Furthermore, I have a letter written and ready to go to corporate that says they are losing a valued customer who spent X dollars just in medication...not to mention all the incidentals.... in co-pays at the store.
Great. Consumers vote with their dollars and you're taking them elsewhere. If they're half way smart about it, they'll also figure out that word of mouth is crucial in a situation like this. If I were a regional mgr, I couldn't bend over far enough to make things right for you.
I went to the independent pharmacy about 30 minutes from my home....the closest one...who filled my Oxy when the crisis was happening and who is able to locate a brand other than Mylan for my patches. I spoke with their PIC who remembered me. I asked if I could speak with her in private. I told her that I was transferring my scripts and wanted to discuss why I take this medication given how cautious I know pharmacists are required to be.
I told her that my pain is related to thoracic neuropathic pain following a PE and that I was just dx'd with lupus.
Very smart to bring her under the tent a bit....A good, understanding pharmacist can actually be an extension of your Doc....Offer suggestions, support and etc.
She commented that I go through a lot. Now, I'm not one looking for a pity party, but it was nice for this woman to affirm that she gets the crap CP patients endure.
She was understanding, entirely professional and non judgmental. She asked that I call around day 21 or 22 so they can order the patches that will be ready for day 30.
Sounds like it's going to work out well. Independents are usually very good at providing excellent service....They are usually good people who are independently driven....That's why they own their own business. They value the customer for their business. I can't tell you how often my pharmacist says "I appreciate your business." I've never gotten a comment like that from any chain store, pharmacy or retail.
Take care, and please let me know if I can help further.
Regards,
Ex
Glad to help. Thank you for your kind words.
After I explain my issues and listen politely , I will inform them that I am transferring all of my medications due to their lack of sensitivity and that I do not need the additional stress around the acquisition of medication.
That's a great way to put things into perspective. I would stress that you have done nothing wrong...Have been incredibly compliant, and that your Doc is 100% supportive....And what they have put your through did nothing but cause you anxiety, additional pain, and stress that you do not need.
Furthermore, I have a letter written and ready to go to corporate that says they are losing a valued customer who spent X dollars just in medication...not to mention all the incidentals.... in co-pays at the store.
Great. Consumers vote with their dollars and you're taking them elsewhere. If they're half way smart about it, they'll also figure out that word of mouth is crucial in a situation like this. If I were a regional mgr, I couldn't bend over far enough to make things right for you.
I went to the independent pharmacy about 30 minutes from my home....the closest one...who filled my Oxy when the crisis was happening and who is able to locate a brand other than Mylan for my patches. I spoke with their PIC who remembered me. I asked if I could speak with her in private. I told her that I was transferring my scripts and wanted to discuss why I take this medication given how cautious I know pharmacists are required to be.
I told her that my pain is related to thoracic neuropathic pain following a PE and that I was just dx'd with lupus.
Very smart to bring her under the tent a bit....A good, understanding pharmacist can actually be an extension of your Doc....Offer suggestions, support and etc.
She commented that I go through a lot. Now, I'm not one looking for a pity party, but it was nice for this woman to affirm that she gets the crap CP patients endure.
She was understanding, entirely professional and non judgmental. She asked that I call around day 21 or 22 so they can order the patches that will be ready for day 30.
Sounds like it's going to work out well. Independents are usually very good at providing excellent service....They are usually good people who are independently driven....That's why they own their own business. They value the customer for their business. I can't tell you how often my pharmacist says "I appreciate your business." I've never gotten a comment like that from any chain store, pharmacy or retail.
Take care, and please let me know if I can help further.
Regards,
Ex
slipperyslope
05-06-2009, 01:27 AM
you did a great thing and I am proud of you for taking it this far and making an apt with the PIC. Good for you. And i like the approach you took with the new pharmacist laying it out so honestly and professionally. great news all the way around. Let us know how your apt goes tomorrow, I will be curious to hear how horrible they feel .and I bet they will do anything to keep your business. But its to late for that, you are the winner here, and took your business elsewhere. Make sure to tell them they could have jeopardized your Pain Management and basically left you to suffer in horrendous pain had your Dr not taken it as well as they did, because they know what a great patient you are. And remind them how compliant of a patient you are and what you go through every month with your UA'S pill counts and the apt you have to go to every month... distance, time out of work and expense. I hope it all works out very well for you. I know it will, and I am sorry that this has caused you a lot of un needed stress do to an ignorent pharmacist who was playing tough guy, now lets see how tough he looks when he looses a good customer and probably gets written up:D.
SS
SS
bullymom
05-06-2009, 06:07 PM
Absolutely brilliant. I think you handeled this perfectly. I can't wait to hear what the PIC's reaction to all of this is. You did not allow them to make you a victim, and whats even cooler is, I bet the next time something like this comes up, they will think twice before treating someone else the way they treated you. As a cp patient, I want to thank you for doing what you did. If more of us could find the strength to do what you did, we might not be judged so harshly.
I hope you keep coming back to the boards, you make a delightful addition to the family here.
Let us know how things come out.
Bullymom:wave:
I hope you keep coming back to the boards, you make a delightful addition to the family here.
Let us know how things come out.
Bullymom:wave:
slipperyslope
05-06-2009, 09:01 PM
How did things go today?? I have been checking in to see what happened. take care, SS
amethystma
05-07-2009, 12:45 PM
Thank you all for being such an awesome PM Cheerleading Squad.
It's been a crazy day, sorry for the delay.
Things went really well. I asserted myself, they apologized, the offered me gift cards, I laughed, good times.....
I will post the details this evening
It's been a crazy day, sorry for the delay.
Things went really well. I asserted myself, they apologized, the offered me gift cards, I laughed, good times.....
I will post the details this evening
roystr
05-08-2009, 09:49 PM
'And explain that you have nothing to be worried or concerned about"
nothing at all, except being denied your meds, then you let them know you did nothing wrong and your not worried about getting flagged, since nothing could flag you, you do just what your told or have worked out with your dr.
all will be fine and if not,by the time you find a new pharm and they have to order them, you could easily get meds within a week or so.
".Unless you decide moving forward by only filling on the exact day required."
whats that mean? if my 30th day falls on sun, i cant geet meds till mon. my dr knows my pharm is closed weekends,i explain that ill be without meds for one or two days, im told to " go ahead and find a new pharm. yesterday i saw dr [29th day] and drove to pharm, i was told "here are some but youll have to come back tomorow o get controlled ones.
in my case its the dr causing this, not my pharm.
not entire ed list;
2 100mg duragesc AND 1 50mcg every 2 days..long term pain.
6 400mcg fentora per day @ 180tabs month.
my entire ain related monthly cost is about just under 8,103.08
x12 97,246.67
changed since list was made.....$ 120.000 K per year per yr.
updated is a bit more than $100k year
just meds,no office visits,mri,nerve tests,etc
they keep calling my atty to settle.
back when pain meds were 60 month,they offered about 125k
now meds are about $97,246.67 year
now the cot isnt looking good to them,,it seems they rathr pay 1000k in pharm costs, but none oyther,least they ont tell me.id jus a modest settlement to get bills paid and finaly out of the companys eyesight for good, so i can die in peace n quiet.
good luck to all off you
ps; my fun n gmes began in/arround 1999....ill not give up till the propper/fair outcome is resolved for injured-broken workers.
nothing at all, except being denied your meds, then you let them know you did nothing wrong and your not worried about getting flagged, since nothing could flag you, you do just what your told or have worked out with your dr.
all will be fine and if not,by the time you find a new pharm and they have to order them, you could easily get meds within a week or so.
".Unless you decide moving forward by only filling on the exact day required."
whats that mean? if my 30th day falls on sun, i cant geet meds till mon. my dr knows my pharm is closed weekends,i explain that ill be without meds for one or two days, im told to " go ahead and find a new pharm. yesterday i saw dr [29th day] and drove to pharm, i was told "here are some but youll have to come back tomorow o get controlled ones.
in my case its the dr causing this, not my pharm.
not entire ed list;
2 100mg duragesc AND 1 50mcg every 2 days..long term pain.
6 400mcg fentora per day @ 180tabs month.
my entire ain related monthly cost is about just under 8,103.08
x12 97,246.67
changed since list was made.....$ 120.000 K per year per yr.
updated is a bit more than $100k year
just meds,no office visits,mri,nerve tests,etc
they keep calling my atty to settle.
back when pain meds were 60 month,they offered about 125k
now meds are about $97,246.67 year
now the cot isnt looking good to them,,it seems they rathr pay 1000k in pharm costs, but none oyther,least they ont tell me.id jus a modest settlement to get bills paid and finaly out of the companys eyesight for good, so i can die in peace n quiet.
good luck to all off you
ps; my fun n gmes began in/arround 1999....ill not give up till the propper/fair outcome is resolved for injured-broken workers.