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Finding Affordable Medications
November 12, 2009 |
The bills are endless: gas, groceries, electric, insurance. Just funding your basic
needs is a challenge for some in this economy.
A recent survey finds that prescription medications are more of luxury than a necessity
these days. “My recommendation is if cost is an issue, you need to discuss it with
your doctor,” advises Dr. Tim Dougherty, Medical Director of Cape Coral Hospital's
Emergency Department.
He says physicians understand money is tight and want to make sure you are getting
much needed medications without breaking the bank. “We want to find out what’s the
best drug for you and cost is certainly a legitimate factor and that’s going to
come into it,” adds Dr. Dougherty. Sometimes just changing a dose or adjusting a
prescription can make all the difference both for you and your wallet. “Convenience.
Once a day pills versus three times a day. Pills that work better at nighttime or
don’t work better at nighttime.”
Above all, he says sharing your economic concerns with your doctor can make a huge
difference. “Clearly, with everything that’s going on today, we want to make sure
they can afford their medications, that requires a discussion with their family
and their doctor. It doesn’t help me writing a prescription if you are not going
to fill it,” he says.
For conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, there are multiple
medications that can be used. Your physician can prescribe the best one to fit your
needs both physically and financially.
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