double script

[Larrabelle]

My dr. sent my script to two pharmacies as I asked him to switch me from one to another.  I LOVE my dr. and don't want to get myself or her in any trouble.  If I pick up both prescriptions will this be a big deal?  Script is for Hydro codone.  I'd like to pick it up, because I keep them for emergencies, but so not worth getting in trouble.  

[Weathergirl21]

I guess I see more of the positive because the PMP can quickly be looked at by an ER Dr. or a new Pharmacist and it can show that someone is on the up and up and has done things the right way with filling their prescriptions on time, not using the ER to get "more" meds if they have them from their Dr. for non emergencies...(not saying your husband did this at all so please don't think that...using an example of someone abusing the system).....as there are true life/death emergencies for people to need the ER....

So now, there is a way to PROVE that someone is one of the "good" ones or not....because the usual and old way was to suspect everyone as a drug seeker....

I carry a piece of paper with me at all times in my purse that shows the list of all my medications, my PM's name and phone number and what surgeries I have had (metal in my neck) so if I'm a situation where I can speak for myself, they will find this next to my license...or if I ever had to go the ER for something, I can show it to them. But for me, if I can speak (as in not unconscious) if I had to go the ER, I would call my PM immediately so they can work with the ER Dr. on anything related to pain/meds.

And I only get urine tested once a year and bring my pill bottles into my appts. which are every three months....but since I've been going there so long, they never really count my meds but they need to check off the list that I have followed these rules. It's really not a big deal to me because I know how much my Dr. has to go through to work with pain patients and  controlled substances.

So, if I ever had to change Drs., they can easily see that I have never called in early for refills, taken more meds than prescribed, abused the ER, or failed urine tests......Again, this makes it easier for them to trust me right off the bat as opposed to just going on a "feeling" about a new patient...

I also feel that these things have been good to help those who are addicted to medications get caught "faster" and get the help they need to recover before things get too bad.

Anyway, I certainly respect those who may feel differently than I.

And I really hope the OP does the right thing by cancelling that prescription!

[Weathergirl21]

The police should only have access to the PMP if they are suspicious of any type of illegal drug activity or if someone is pulled over for suspected DUI/DWI. So, it's not something they do for a simple speeding or traffic ticket. I have friends in the police department and have talked this over with them.

[Weathergirl21]

Thanks so much for asking:) Don't want to hijack the thread so I'll be quick...I have been looking for work so haven't been online much to PM sites but read as much as I can....Thankfully I have found a job that I can physically handle as is less than two miles from my home!!! I'm excited!

Hope you have been doing well!

[CLUMSYmansWIFE]

I have mixed feelings about the monitoring system. I am a a bit more pro though. I dont like the idea of everyone being able to see my records such as someone stated earlier even law enforcement. However it is making people that need prescription pain relievers for severe chronic daily pain to be able to obtain them. I agree with the law about drug testing at the clinics & if all rules are followed as ordered there shouldn't be a problem but because of a few bad apples in the barrel it feels like im getting punished for their bad actions. (Im sure a few bad apples is a gross understatement). I realize doctors have to be on their toes now because of the abuse but everyone that may have to ask for them are not bad people and shouldnt be punished. For example my husband had had 7 back surgeries and he stumbled down 4 stairs, we got to the er and he asked for a pain reliever and the way the doc looked at him u would have thought he asked for the whole pharmacy. His clinc is affiliated with the hospital therefore the clinic can see the er visits and vise-versa. He has never failed an urine test and his levels and bottle counts are always right. (Bottle counts may even be more than Whats expected). This is just one way that the selfish abusing addicts are really hurting the legit people. There is help out there i just wish people would take more advantage of that!! Sorry if i offended anyone!

[Jinxie_W]

I am not a huge fan of the monitoring system as the way it is right now.  i know that police departments have access to it as well and that sets someone up for mistreatment by being mistaken for a drug abuser because they may not understand WHY you are taking the meds. hope this made sense

[Jinxie_W]

use this as an opportunity to establish trust and respect from your Dr. by telling them that there are 2 scripts.  It is a horrible idea to try and get both filled.

[trixy71]

I hope you don't mind me asking, but how have you been? I haven't seen you around in a very long time.

[Weathergirl21]

I'm someone who thinks the Prescription Monitoring Program is a good thing. It makes it easy now for Drs., Pharmacists, or ERs to quickly check if someone has filled or tried to fill other controlled substances so that it cuts down on those who are trying to cheat the system or abusing their meds.

It hasn't done one negative thing in regards to my pain management or how my Dr. prescribes his medication to his patients. It's not like just "anyone" can go and view this.....it's only when you walk into a Dr. office and seek care, or use a Pharmacy, or even a Hospital or ER...

Btw, it's HIPAA (with two As) as it stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

I'm not sure why someone would be upset about the monitoring system unless they are folks who are trying to obtain medications from two or more doctors, (doctor shopping), or stealing or faking prescriptions and trying to fill them.

For those of us who follow the easy rules of taking our own medications as prescribed, it doesn't effect my care in any way.

[philnoir]

Most states now have prescription control monitoring systems in place, which means that every pharmacy now has access to your controlled prescription buying habits. So does every doctor, and I'll bet the regulators also have access.

This kind of invasion of privacy has not yet been challenged in the courts as a violation of HIPPA. I believe people in pain should be banging on the state house doors about this.

But in the mean time, don't take chances -- don't double fill.

[Weathergirl21]

You need to call your Dr. and tell them about this ASAP so they can cancel the prescription.

I'm a bit nervous that you would even have to ask this question as you say you keep some around for "emergencies".....

By picking up both prescriptions, you would get red flagged by the Prescription Monitoring Program and each Pharmacy. This could get you kicked out of your pain management,  have a mark on your medical records, and make it extremely difficult to get any help later on...

It's like if the bank accidentally gave you twice the amount at the ATM, or your company accidentally paid you double your salary......There is right and wrong in this world and I hope you do the right thing as the one who would pay for getting caught would be you.