Did you know that pharmacists are allowed to question and even refuse your doctor’s prescription?
Some doctors (the good ones) are grateful to have their prescription double-checked.
Because they know that incorrect prescriptions are more common than we think.
In fact, a recent study has shown that 11 million Americans have likely been given incorrect prescriptions for statin, aspirin, and blood pressure prescriptions alone. [R]
These errors are due to doctors relying on outdated data.
In the cases mentioned above, the prescriptions were given based on data from patients in 1948.
A lot has changed since then, including habits, diet, treatments, and environment.
Point being, if you’re ever suspicious about something you’re prescribed, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Ask what you should expect to experience throughout the treatment.
And what you should do if you don’t experience those things within the appropriate timeframe.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get a second opinion. Especially if the treatment prescribed to you is expensive.
Sometimes, a nurse or technician will casually mention that you are entitled to a second opinion.
Although it may seem like a side comment, take it as a serious recommendation.
Some will do this to warn you about a prescription without stepping on the doctor’s toes.
We have a multidisciplinary approach to medicine for a reason.
No doctor can keep all the information about every treatment, drug, or procedure in their head all the time.
The specialties are there to assist one another in providing the best possible treatment for the patient.
But in any case, the number one person responsible for your health is YOU.
So don’t be afraid to ask hard, uncomfortable, or even challenging questions.
Pay attention to how your doctor handles your questions.
If the nurse or pharmacist expresses any concerns, pay attention to how your doctor handles them.
If your doctor is immediately dismissive or defensive, it may be time to find a new doctor.
It’s nothing personal. You’re just being responsible about what goes into your body.