Thursday, March 5, 2009

Getting the Medication - Chapter 8

The days flew by. About mid December I decided it was time to fill Don's prescription. I knew the injections had to be refrigerated, so I chose a day that I was off of work to go to the Walmart pharmacy. That, after all was convenient and where we got all of our other medications.

I dropped off the paper prescriptions and went about my shopping, returning 40 minutes later. After waiting in line, the sales girl took my name, looked onto her computer screen and hesitated a few seconds. She lowered her voice and directed me to the consultation window to speak to the pharmacist. Concerned, I did as she asked. The pharmacist gave me back the papers and advised me that they did not carry the specific medications Don needed. Responding to a confused look on my face she said,
"These injections and pills cost $2700.00 for one months dose!"

I was dumbfounded and speechless. The only thing I managed to get out of my mouth was the words Thank you.

I returned to my car and continued to drive. The next pharmacy I came to was CVS. I was given the exact same response. This time I asked the pharmacist if she knew where I could possibly get these medications. She lowered her head and in almost a whisper she replied, "Try the 24 hour Walgreens down the street."

I was so appreciative of this advice and continued the journey. When I arrived at Walgreens, approached the counter and gave them the prescriptions, the pharmacist came over to assist me.
"Do you carry this medication, because no other pharmacy I have been to does and I am getting scared!" I blurted out to her.
"Yes Ma'am, we do. I can fill this for you now, but I do need to give you my card so that you can call us before you need a refill. This medicine is so expensive that you will need to call and order it."
"Thank you!" I replied.

I milled around the store until they called me back to pick it up. "Sorry it took so long. We had to call your insurance company and get a special approval to fill this." the sales girl said.
My eyes widened as she continued, "They approved it for 12 months." she said as she nodded at me. "That will be thirty dollars"

Walking back to my car, clutching the bag I repeated to myself, "I love my insurance, I love my insurance, I love my insurance...."

10 comments:

bj said...

Won't you please stop by my place for PINK SATURDAY ? ;>)

and, oh yes...we love our insurance to pieces, too.!!
hugs, bj

Ginger said...

Very expensive drug!!! I am without insurance right now, since my hubby retired. I have to wait until I am 65 for medicare, so I have to pay cash for everything. One of my diabetes drugs is $224 a month. I never realized how lucky I was to have insurance, but years ago when I had it, I very seldom used it. I tried to get ins. on my own but with diabetes no one wants to insure me. (at least to where it would be affordable).
I'm so happy you and Don have ins. can you imagine having to pay cash for that each month?

Garden Antqs Vintage said...

Oh my what another ordeal to go through. I wonder why the other pharmacies couldn't just do the same instead of you having to drive all over for them.

Sometimes It's Good said...

I'm so glad you found the medicine and had the insurance to pay for it. That fearful situation is what makes me wish we had a national health care so that those who don't have insurance would be able to get the care they need. Sorry my liberal thinking is popping out.
Lots of hugs to you!
Susan

cotedetexas said...

whoa. You know - something to remember - pharmacies around hospitals are usually good. At least Walgreens had it! What a hassle - but I know you don't mind. You are like me - you would do whatever you can to get your husband well.

Thank GOD for insurance!!!!!!!!!!

a pink-bee said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband.
crystal

~M. said...

Julie,
I wish the best for you and your husband and will hold you both in thought and prayer. I have had a number of friends who were diagnosed with Hep C, and sadly did not take care of themselves well after learning of their illness, at all. They were all Vietnam veterans, and had used drugs while there (and after!) I'm so glad to know your hubby is doing the best he can to help himself heal, and glad you are there for him!!!

Unknown said...

Hang in there Julie, I know it is easy for me to say but know your friends are thinking of you in this time of struggle.

Kindredly, Lynne Laura

The Urban Chic said...

Julie, I am with you, because of all the meds I have to take and injections, I don't know where we would be without our insurance. When hubby retires, we are keeping it because they will pick up what Medicare doesn't pay. I will continue to pray for Don and I know that things will be better for both of you very soon. We also learned that Hepititis B can be transferred to him, so they refused to take his blood. So far so good. It's not even close to C, so I can only imagine how Don is feeling. Prayers for both of you. Love and Hugs, Pat

Beth in NC said...

I came over from BJ's blog. I just want you to know I am praying for you and your husband. I pray his liver will totally regenerate and be like new -- healthy and whole in Jesus' Name.

Love,
Beth