DEAR DR. GOTT: Many publications have inserts in them for discounts on prescription drugs. When I see these, I tear them out, take them to my pharmacy, and present them at the window where prescriptions are filled. Employees save them to use for customers who don’t have insurance. Why do I do this? Because I have insurance and can help others who do not.
DEAR READER: Target and Wal-Mart offer $4 prescriptions for a one-month supply of medication. There may be other large chains I am unaware of that provide a similar program. This is of enormous assistance to everyone, but primarily those on a fixed income who must watch every penny.
Over the years, I have known patients who cut their medication in half, making a prescription last twice as long. Obviously, it isn’t always as effective when a modification in dosage is instituted but just maybe half is better than nothing when the alternative is not to take anything, compounding a medical disorder.
If we all take your lead and make an effort to help others in similar ways, we will be doing something good for our communities and perhaps might even feel better about ourselves. In today’s difficult economy, it’s a thoughtful thing you do. Keep up the good work.
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