The Magic Bag of Meds

I have run across somewhat of a trend among some of the doctors that I have seen for various issues. Before continuing, I would like to put out the disclaimer that I am not directing this at all doctors. However, I have had the experience in question with no less than three doctors lately and have also seen it in the past. These are the doctors with a big, industrial-sized cabinet of sample medications. I have to be money conscious as my job as a social worker is not exactly making me rich.

I have to have generics most (or all) of the time. In many cases, I may be taking a particular medication for a very long time, or sometimes forever. That said, while the doctor might mean well, I cannot commit to making a monthly trip to the doctor to pick up my bag of samples for uh, the rest of my life. It is just not efficient. Moreover, what if they run out of samples? The response I have received regarding this query is that they will give me coupons. Coupons? Oh, so the medication will only cost me $300 instead of $700. Well, that’s just great. I can afford $20. Got anything for $20?

Tried and true or brand new meds for IBS?

Aside from the monetary aspect of this (which I will return to), my main issue is that I get the feeling that doctors are starting to prescribe medication that is the ‘latest and greatest’ as opposed to what has worked in the past or simply might be the best option for you. I have experienced this with GI docs, PCPs, and psychiatrists. There have to be other options other than the shiny, new, super expensive one.

I am not shy about telling doctors that I need generics or something that is covered by my insurance. I don’t have great insurance, but I tell ya, I’m happy to have any at all. Some of my clients at the agency I work for don’t have insurance or have county-issued insurance. Do you know what they often get? Meds that came out in 1977. Not that they are all bad — many are very, very effective. But how come you have to have Gold Platinum Diamond and Vibranium insurance to get the ‘good stuff?’ Ok, ok, I’ll stop with the pharma hate, but you get my point. I just feel like my options are limited enough. I want to feel better, so please just give me something you feel will work at a price I can afford. Please?

Advocating for affordable IBS meds

As you can tell, this has aggravated me somewhat. I’m sure you have had similar aggravations from time to time. We can only advocate for ourselves in that doctor’s office and make it very clear what we can afford and more clear how we are feeling. A good doctor will work with that scenario. If they seem hesitant or push meds on you that you are uncomfortable with in any way, try someone else. It really shouldn’t be this hard, we have enough problems. Alright...rant over.