Just because they wear a white coat…
I was on the phone talking to a client, discussing her prescription coverage. Her doctor had prescribed a new, expensive medication to treat her condition. Because the drug was not part of her insurance carriers’ formulary, she was forced to cover this cost out-of-pocket, which prompted the phone call. I discovered during our conversation that she had not yet tried any of the more common, less expensive, generic medications. She simply stated, “That is what my doctor prescribed, so that is what I am taking.”
Whether the topic is prescription drugs, a costly test or procedure, the latest medical device or a recent diagnosis, I am amazed at how reluctant patients are to discuss lower cost options with their physician or to even get a second opinion.
Laura Landro writes a column for The Wall Street Journal called “The Informed Patient.” She was recently interviewed on my favorite morning radio talk show, Armstrong and Getty, which I heard via their podcast (Yes… that means I am “stealing Cheerios from Samuel and now Henry.” Those who listen to the show will understand this inside joke.). During the interview she commented, “I think one of the most important things is to think… does my doctor really know enough about this particular condition.” She raises the question of expertise and to get a “second pair of eyes” to review the information as a safeguard. She does an excellent job of covering this topic in more detail in her recent article entitled, “What if the Doctor Is Wrong?”
My point is this… we all went to school, some of us longer than others. We experienced the fact that everyone received different grades. We all appreciate (or should appreciate) our doctors. Hopefully you have one that is wonderful and knowledgeable. But just because they wear a white coat does not mean we shouldn’t question their opinions or recommendations. With so much information available today via the internet, we owe it to ourselves to stay informed and especially when it comes to our health, make sure that they get it right!
Wishing you good health!
Michael Lacerda
Simplifying Insurance 