prescription renewals for high blood pressure

[jeankb]

has anyone else been told that with the new laws a physician can only give you a prescription for blood pressure medicine for three months at a time and then he has to see you again. Seems like this is going to get much more expensive and profitable for the physicians.

[zuzu8]

Jean,

My prescription drug plan is AdvancePCS (as part of a group health insurance plan through work). I haven't heard of a new law...at least in California where I live. I order my BP meds through the Plan's mail-order system which is much cheaper. My last prescription was for a 90 day supply plus 3 refills. Of course as the law stands now, the refills are at the doctor's discretion. That'll give me a year's supply without having to see him.

When is this law supposed to kick in? Is it a federal or state law?

zuzu xxx

[jeankb]

Thanks for responding. (I live in Florida) It was the receptionist in the doctor's office who told me there was a new law that prevented them from giving more than a 3 month prescription w/o seeing the doctor. I'll find out more when I go in next week. Maybe it's a new rule in their office. Meanwhile my druggist didn't know what she could be talking about.

[zip2play]

jeankb,

I think your estimation of "visit gouging" by you doctor is the correct one. Call your insurance company if you have one or the state DEA.

In New York and New Jersey prescriptions can be written for a year's refill except for Controlled Substances like opiates, tranquilizers, steroids where only one refill (total 60 days) is allowed.
My new doctor has been doling out 5 refills when my old always gave me 11...I will SOON blow my stack about it. He's obviously building a practice and would like to see me daily!
My cardiologist ALWAYS writes "x11."

Most states usually void refills if over a year old even if not filled.

[Tschuess]

I wonder if this new "policy" is something cooked up your doctor's office to ensure compliance (adherence) with medication usage. My cardio's office has notes posted all over the place requesting patients bring their medications with them on all visits, ostensibly to count the number of pills. I'm like Zulu - I get 90-day scripts with 3 refills, but this only after my doctor was convinced I was taking my meds as indicated. Ask your doctor what the scoop is.

edited because I got Zip confused with Zulu (must be the Z)