In the last ten years, my daughter, Michelle, has had to endure more doctor appointments, medical work ups, diagnostic procedures, endless blood draws, colonoscopies, MRIs, bone scans, ER and OR visits ( I think you get the point) than I care to count. No person, at a such a young and impressionable age, should have suffered (and continues to suffer) so exceedingly.
Regretfully, Michelle saw how pain can manifest it's ugly little face in a much more devastating manner. In cruel irony, she quickly learned that health CARE providers are not always so caring, in the true sense of the word. If they are not thoughtful during the treatment process, there is a risk of dispensing a cruel and emotionally crippling medicine with "calloused indifference" as it's main ingredient. No one likes to be dismissed. (I would rather be hated. At least there is some twisted logic that "the hater" took enough time and effort to form his lowly opinion of me).
For example, just ask me about a couple of top local (but later chagrined) orthopedic surgeons that refused to admit a sixteen year old woman who just happen to "own" a fractured femur a few years ago. It broke not because of any trauma, the bone had simply been eaten away by a bacterial infection, and over time, the thigh bone shattered like an old piece of PVC pipe. These experts were blinded by a cloud of hubris. Even when critical mass hit in the ER, they blew off the attending doctor's concern surrounding the patient, refused to help with the hospital trauma admit. Adding insult to injury, they also tagged this young lady as a drug seeker. Did I mention that this same young woman was my daughter, Michelle, and I am a pharmacist?
Think about how you may have been treated when a doctor didn't take your complaint serious and instead, talked when listening should have been in order. I am certain it was not money well spent as you were rushed out of the exam room with a pat on the head seemingly meant to convey "all is well!" Let me draw a picture for you. You are the unlucky winner of a, "It's all in your head" diagnosis. (Maybe it was better that during the exam you didn't catch the doctor's sigh and the infamous eye roll combo). Now, it is too big of a stretch to believe that this obnoxious attitude could be interpreted by someone in a sensitive moment as, "That doctor thinks I am crazy!" And that my friends, is the ultimate insult! Upside...you are not suffering alone
Your challenge in negotiating optimal medical care is to do some foot work and find not only a brilliant,capable, experienced doctor, but someone willing to be invested when "what ails you" is more than seasonal allergies. Furthermore, diagnosis should never be made with a "big chip" of an attribution error on the doctor's shoulder.
In fairness, one has to remember that first, the human body is incredibly complex. Second, the diagnostics skills of any given physicians are limited. Somebody had to graduate at the bottom of the medical school class. And lastly, there are diseases and syndromes that are probably ahead of the curve when it comes to our limits of technology. Obviously, take complete advantage of the blessings of modern medicine like advanced blood tests, the incredible advances of diagnostic imaging, life saving drugs and the like.
However, never...I mean never (Are you listening Mom's?) second guess your personal intuition. If you feel there is something more to the journey, then there is something more to the journey. Follow it relentlessly. If that physician you just saw were in your shoes, he would do the same. Doctors do "fire" their own doctors. You won't be crazy with that new found attitude. Okay you will be...crazy like a fox!
And remember...take as directed
Blake
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Thursday, February 25, 2016
"Who's on First?"
Many times watching Michelle navigate her trip through health care is like watching the famous Abbott and Costello comedy routine, "Who's on First?" Is it too much to ask to put communication at the forefront as we fool ourselves into thinking that there is such a thing as "coordination of care" without making a trip to the Mayo Clinic! Unfortunately, that prospect is at best...abysmal, so keep the expectations realistic if the problem is more complicated than hypertension or gastrointestinal reflux.
Case in point...Michelle's latest medical mystery is causing her body to make too much or failing to get rid of, her cerebral spinal fluid. This is the crystal clear liquid stuff that roams up and down you spinal cord and bathes your brain needed for a proper functioning nervous system. If the pressure is too high, the problem is called "pseudotumor ceribri" or better described as "idiopathic (meaning we haven't a clue) intracranial hypertension." In lay terms and may you never have to come to these terms...it feels as if your head is ready to bust open at the seams. Throw in double and/or blurred vision and its most severe manifestation, a total loss of vision. The fluid is actually pressing and "squashing" the pituitary gland. That is not good, since the pituitary gland is the "high school jock" of the endocrine glands. It always sits at the "cool table" and has a way of messing up the body's hormone balance.
Usually to get some answers, one gets their ticket punched for a visit to the ER (oh...what joy!) for a lumbar puncture...or in the old days, as most know it, a spinal tap (now is a good time to toggle over to a YouTube video). The procedure is quite impressive, unless your the one being used as a pin cushion, because in an emergency situation it has to be done "blind" without the guidance of a fluoroscope (a fancy machine that helps guide the needle in). And please note...the ER doctor was fabulous at the procedure.
So...why don't more physicians talk to more physicians and get a few answers for their patients? After all they belong to the same "fraternity!" They have sacrificed and worked hard and certainly relate to the obligatory mandatory suffering along the way, right? However, here is the rub and it is very abrasive...and extremely frustrating. Many times these doctors are extremely proprietary, meaning if I am a neurologist, it must ONLY be a neurology problem or if I am a gastorenterologist, the answers can ONLY be found in the intestinal wall. And...I am not so good in "sharing" what I have so deftly discovered.
In a perfect world, we would not care about these "turf wars" and if a pediatrician tags out to a thyroid specialist, make sure the chart notes tag along. I don't really care who forwards my daughter toward optimal treatment. I am not throwing stones here...okay, maybe a bit. The patient may suffer because of the battle of egos. Over the years and in the span of sixty doctors, I have seen maybe a half dozen primary care and specialty providers think out of the box when it came to Michelle's medical management. Of late, it has made a tremendous difference in Michelle's quality of life and I am eternally thankful.
So...best wishes in your personal health challenges and trials. How refreshing is it to see any specialist act special and make the investment by pulling out all the stops, and truly care. I'm fine with an endocrinologist acting a little like a cardiologist, if necessary. I wish you luck on finding out, "Who's on First!" And remember...take as directed.
Blake
Case in point...Michelle's latest medical mystery is causing her body to make too much or failing to get rid of, her cerebral spinal fluid. This is the crystal clear liquid stuff that roams up and down you spinal cord and bathes your brain needed for a proper functioning nervous system. If the pressure is too high, the problem is called "pseudotumor ceribri" or better described as "idiopathic (meaning we haven't a clue) intracranial hypertension." In lay terms and may you never have to come to these terms...it feels as if your head is ready to bust open at the seams. Throw in double and/or blurred vision and its most severe manifestation, a total loss of vision. The fluid is actually pressing and "squashing" the pituitary gland. That is not good, since the pituitary gland is the "high school jock" of the endocrine glands. It always sits at the "cool table" and has a way of messing up the body's hormone balance.
Usually to get some answers, one gets their ticket punched for a visit to the ER (oh...what joy!) for a lumbar puncture...or in the old days, as most know it, a spinal tap (now is a good time to toggle over to a YouTube video). The procedure is quite impressive, unless your the one being used as a pin cushion, because in an emergency situation it has to be done "blind" without the guidance of a fluoroscope (a fancy machine that helps guide the needle in). And please note...the ER doctor was fabulous at the procedure.
So...why don't more physicians talk to more physicians and get a few answers for their patients? After all they belong to the same "fraternity!" They have sacrificed and worked hard and certainly relate to the obligatory mandatory suffering along the way, right? However, here is the rub and it is very abrasive...and extremely frustrating. Many times these doctors are extremely proprietary, meaning if I am a neurologist, it must ONLY be a neurology problem or if I am a gastorenterologist, the answers can ONLY be found in the intestinal wall. And...I am not so good in "sharing" what I have so deftly discovered.
In a perfect world, we would not care about these "turf wars" and if a pediatrician tags out to a thyroid specialist, make sure the chart notes tag along. I don't really care who forwards my daughter toward optimal treatment. I am not throwing stones here...okay, maybe a bit. The patient may suffer because of the battle of egos. Over the years and in the span of sixty doctors, I have seen maybe a half dozen primary care and specialty providers think out of the box when it came to Michelle's medical management. Of late, it has made a tremendous difference in Michelle's quality of life and I am eternally thankful.
So...best wishes in your personal health challenges and trials. How refreshing is it to see any specialist act special and make the investment by pulling out all the stops, and truly care. I'm fine with an endocrinologist acting a little like a cardiologist, if necessary. I wish you luck on finding out, "Who's on First!" And remember...take as directed.
Blake
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Back to the future...again
To all those who may have stumbled on to this site by a feral keystroke and those three past followers...WELCOME BACK!
Tis not like I didn't want to post over the past few years on the subject of health care excelling in putting the "fun" in dysfunctionality. And..somebody certainly most wiser than me once said, "Write what you know." Oh...I know and have had every reason in continuing to join all those bloggers "popping off" about an issue screaming inside their head and leaving them in a state of wonderment on why all readers don't share their same passion. It is not hard to get passionate and sometimes just damn angry when you see a loved one chronically in pain and co-suffering the accompanying hopelessness.
The personal exhaustion factor seemed so overwhelming and I continue to exist in a relentless state of "shock and awe" as our family continues to search for some answers surrounding my daughter's decade long battle with ungodly health (refer to previous posts for sense of her journey in an unbelievable health care maze).
So...the gloves are off from here on out. This will be a narrative of advocacy. Change is good. Look, my intention isn't to strike a pose of a great iconoclast of the health care system. Providers have a tendency to protect their commitment to medical care and get defensive when their reputations are questioned. But, for over a decade, I have watched my daughter suffer...and it angers me. It angers me more thinking about the many people who will never read my poor pathetic attempts at a blogging. They often lack the advocacy that I have felt oh so lucky and blessed to possess. I would not want to be Michelle's doctor and believe me, there have been many who have gracefully...or not...bowed out of that responsibility over these years. I mean not to offend, just provide a little positive tension when it comes to subject. If we can't pause and offer a little self criticism, how can we get better?
We call Michelle the "tail of the bell curve" and if you look at the bottom of my site, you will see her in front of a picture of zebras. There is great symbolism in that moment, because at the risk of sounding cliche, when we hear the sounds of "hoofs" we think horses, not zebras. Zebras often confirm a critical diagnosis. Remember? It is the "practice of medicine!"
From now on my dedicated readers, my post will focus on sharing events and experiences that can enlighten. Like many of you, Michelle's continual trial motivates us to find the top of the puzzle box so we finally solve the mystery. We are going to start from right here and now...going in reverse and in no particular order (it blends well with my adult adhd). I got the idea a couple of years ago when I purchased the first installment of Mark Twain's autobiography...and it was random and I liked it. The bottom line is, please stay with me and share the trials and the frustration and the small victories that our family as had. We willingly share Michelle as your personal lighting rod. I promise it will help and you will never feel that you are bearing your particular health care crisis alone. The pharmacist is in and he is to be trusted. And remember...take as directed.
Blake
Tis not like I didn't want to post over the past few years on the subject of health care excelling in putting the "fun" in dysfunctionality. And..somebody certainly most wiser than me once said, "Write what you know." Oh...I know and have had every reason in continuing to join all those bloggers "popping off" about an issue screaming inside their head and leaving them in a state of wonderment on why all readers don't share their same passion. It is not hard to get passionate and sometimes just damn angry when you see a loved one chronically in pain and co-suffering the accompanying hopelessness.
The personal exhaustion factor seemed so overwhelming and I continue to exist in a relentless state of "shock and awe" as our family continues to search for some answers surrounding my daughter's decade long battle with ungodly health (refer to previous posts for sense of her journey in an unbelievable health care maze).
So...the gloves are off from here on out. This will be a narrative of advocacy. Change is good. Look, my intention isn't to strike a pose of a great iconoclast of the health care system. Providers have a tendency to protect their commitment to medical care and get defensive when their reputations are questioned. But, for over a decade, I have watched my daughter suffer...and it angers me. It angers me more thinking about the many people who will never read my poor pathetic attempts at a blogging. They often lack the advocacy that I have felt oh so lucky and blessed to possess. I would not want to be Michelle's doctor and believe me, there have been many who have gracefully...or not...bowed out of that responsibility over these years. I mean not to offend, just provide a little positive tension when it comes to subject. If we can't pause and offer a little self criticism, how can we get better?
We call Michelle the "tail of the bell curve" and if you look at the bottom of my site, you will see her in front of a picture of zebras. There is great symbolism in that moment, because at the risk of sounding cliche, when we hear the sounds of "hoofs" we think horses, not zebras. Zebras often confirm a critical diagnosis. Remember? It is the "practice of medicine!"
From now on my dedicated readers, my post will focus on sharing events and experiences that can enlighten. Like many of you, Michelle's continual trial motivates us to find the top of the puzzle box so we finally solve the mystery. We are going to start from right here and now...going in reverse and in no particular order (it blends well with my adult adhd). I got the idea a couple of years ago when I purchased the first installment of Mark Twain's autobiography...and it was random and I liked it. The bottom line is, please stay with me and share the trials and the frustration and the small victories that our family as had. We willingly share Michelle as your personal lighting rod. I promise it will help and you will never feel that you are bearing your particular health care crisis alone. The pharmacist is in and he is to be trusted. And remember...take as directed.
Blake
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Drop the phone....step away from the counter!
Alexander Graham Bell would be furious if he could stand behind any pharmacy counter for 5 minutes and see how his invention has spawned an unbelievable level of thoughtlessness by many of today's customers and their omnipresent cell phones. I know there were impeccable rules of etiquette in the 19th century, way before cell phones became common place. I would very much like to see that sense of decency fast forwarded to the 21st century...Please!!! And the insults only get worse. Seriously, who does this! Or, maybe the bigger question that begs to be asked is, "Why must they do it?"
When a pharmacist is attempting to counsel a patient on a drug that could at least, quickly improve quality of life, or at best save one, to me that is a big deal...not to overplay a druggist self importance or the medicine dispensed. On the contrary, if warnings on a drug's adverse side effects are not heeded, because an individual walks up to the counter on their cell phone discussing important topics that can't wait...for example, "Do you want me to pick up the Bacon Ranch Dressing or just the Regular?"...we have a problem. In short, you might trade your daily helping of greens for a very bad day of drug side effects.
Or...here is one even better. As the patient walks up to the counter to pick up their prescription, the cell phone goes off, they frantically pick it up and...the PHARMACIST "gets put on hold!" "Oh, Mr Pharmacist, I need to get this...be with you in a minute! Really? I think you see where I am going with this.
So...at the risk of sounding a little edgy on this one (it was a very difficult week at the pharmacy for me), I am pleading with all pharmacy patrons. Please...give your favorite pharmacist a break!! Listen carefully to what he or she has to say about your latest drug therapy. Don't put that all critical bit of information "on hold!" Be a great health advocate for yourself. It is so easy in this case and not to sound to melodramatic...it might just save a life or the quality therein.
I'm begging your...drop the phone...step away from the counter! And please remember...."take as directed."
Blake
When a pharmacist is attempting to counsel a patient on a drug that could at least, quickly improve quality of life, or at best save one, to me that is a big deal...not to overplay a druggist self importance or the medicine dispensed. On the contrary, if warnings on a drug's adverse side effects are not heeded, because an individual walks up to the counter on their cell phone discussing important topics that can't wait...for example, "Do you want me to pick up the Bacon Ranch Dressing or just the Regular?"...we have a problem. In short, you might trade your daily helping of greens for a very bad day of drug side effects.
Or...here is one even better. As the patient walks up to the counter to pick up their prescription, the cell phone goes off, they frantically pick it up and...the PHARMACIST "gets put on hold!" "Oh, Mr Pharmacist, I need to get this...be with you in a minute! Really? I think you see where I am going with this.
So...at the risk of sounding a little edgy on this one (it was a very difficult week at the pharmacy for me), I am pleading with all pharmacy patrons. Please...give your favorite pharmacist a break!! Listen carefully to what he or she has to say about your latest drug therapy. Don't put that all critical bit of information "on hold!" Be a great health advocate for yourself. It is so easy in this case and not to sound to melodramatic...it might just save a life or the quality therein.
I'm begging your...drop the phone...step away from the counter! And please remember...."take as directed."
Blake
Monday, April 30, 2012
I am back...Why?
I am shocked!! I just noticed the date of my last blog posting. It is clearly evident that it has been so long since I vented, that I have lost the last two people in the world that were even remotely interested in my health care insights. And...quite frankly, I think they were close family members, just peeking in once in a while to see if my rants were turned down to a rolling boil.
Hey, I am not angry a druggist, I'm just at an age where I don't suffer fools lightly and I might be a tad grumpy about the state of affairs behind the pharmacy counter, but at the end of the day, I would very much like to see a smarter pharmacy patient. All parties would benefit and I am betting my next paycheck, it would lead to big savings on the health care dollar. With frustration running high of late, today's writing is personally therapeutic and I suppose a little self-serving Hey...I can live with that!
Maybe, I can slowly woo those few readers back with a few tips. I have seen the quality of writing from outspoken pharmacists on tons of topics; some whimsical, some tragic, and some very thought provoking. Given the right chance, I just might be able to find my little niche in the world of pharmacists that can both count to thirty and also comment on the issue at hand withouht leaving a dangling participle. There is nothing wrong in wrappping up a "pet-peeve" in a small box of "edginess", is there? I want to get the readers attention, but I don't desire to be obnoxious about the whole affair. So....
True to my mantra of the 3 "Bs," I shall Be Brief, Be Brilliant, and Be Gone. I ask a simple question to all of us pharmacy partons who just might have been guilty of the following breaches of etiquette. I want to simply ask..."Why?"
-Why do we wait until Friday evening to request a prescription refill with NO refills, knowing full well we are "leaving town for the weekend?" or better still, "in a couple of hours?"
-Why do we think the pharmacy dictates the price our insurance company is charging us for our prescriptions?
-Why do we think that a pharmacist will fill our prescription faster if we stand at the pick-up window, pounding out Morse Code with our debit card?
-Why do we and the pharmacist count 30 days differently when it comes to Hydrocodone/APAP prescriptions that must last 1 month between refills?
-Why do we think that our physician requires an insurance card at time of service, but is unnecessary at our local drug store?
-Why do we think that pharmacists learned an extra skill set in pharmacy school as a grocery checker?
-Why is that we feel okay about calling our pharmacist and requesting to refill "all the usual prescriptions I usually get every month?"
-Why do we think that in the pharmacy, 20 minutes actually means 5 minutes in prescription processing time?
-Why do we think that a pharmacist can easily fill our prescription 5 minutes before the closing hour, because we are sure he doesn't want to get home after spending 10 straight hours on his feet?
-Why do we feel the necessity on arriving at the prescription drop-off window to immediately stick our head inwards and yell at the top of our voice, "Yoo-Who!" as if those 2 seconds of wait time on our part was extremely unreasonable?
-Why do we think our local pharmacist is obligated to solve our mail-order pharmacy problems and many others that he or she might not be qualified to do so? (I do believe that is a dangling partiple situation!)
Okay...I think I have made myself clear and not too insulting. Next time you fill that prescription, feel a little for that overworked guy in the white labcoat...and remember, Take as Directed!
blake
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
How does the horror flick end?
Yesterday, was Halloween, and as I get older, I like the marking of All Hallows Eve less and less. In fact, 3 years ago I was given the scare of my life...literally.
If you are the 1 or 2 people following my "journey o' blog", you will remember that on 10/31/2008 our family was hit with our own personal tsunami(2008 wasn't the best year for a lot of us, you must agree). My youngest daughter was in the OR for a critical leg surgery. We were impatiently waiting outside for the results. Bone cancer was a possible outcome. Bone infection was the other option. As you would guess, neither was a trick nor a treat at the time!
We marked the occasion last night over pizza and soda and all things considered, we are all healing physically and emotionally. It will take some of us longer to get closure. However, one could make the case of not completely shutting that door, lest we forget the experience and lessons learned. Obviously, there was some second guessing on my part regarding all of those past healthcare decisions impacting my family. I suppose that was to be expected. All of the "woulda,shoulda,couldas" came gushing out.
But here is the thing. Here, indeed, is your prescription that hopefully keeps you from being too worried or whining too much or second guessing yourself, or thinking "I am just too exhausted to continue!" amidst my personal health care crisis. And by the way, I have been a active participant in all of the previously mentioned counter-productive behaviors.
This life saving "medicine" is the assurance that you will get through the crisis (despite screwing things up more times than you can count). Without any additional pharamaceutical help, your present situation will be soon a past situation. Embrace the change. Think of it as being trapped into watching a bad horror flick (painful as it is). You desperately want to see how this ghoulish story ends. However, as luck would have it, the DVD goes belly up, dashing any chances to catch the story's conclusion. It may be a while before you are able to purchase a new, fancy BlueRay/DVD player and re-rent the movie. The waiting game is on.
Like this goofy analogy, we have little control over outcomes, especially when we desire them the most. However, rest assured, they will find us, regardless of its nature. And that is a good thing, in its own twisted way. We now know! I dare say, life would be both monotonous and unfilling if things were any different. There is great value in historical perspective in this portion of life's journey. We get to make the judgement call on whether the tincture of time is powerful medicine for healing of our souls. And please remember...Take as directed
blake
If you are the 1 or 2 people following my "journey o' blog", you will remember that on 10/31/2008 our family was hit with our own personal tsunami(2008 wasn't the best year for a lot of us, you must agree). My youngest daughter was in the OR for a critical leg surgery. We were impatiently waiting outside for the results. Bone cancer was a possible outcome. Bone infection was the other option. As you would guess, neither was a trick nor a treat at the time!
We marked the occasion last night over pizza and soda and all things considered, we are all healing physically and emotionally. It will take some of us longer to get closure. However, one could make the case of not completely shutting that door, lest we forget the experience and lessons learned. Obviously, there was some second guessing on my part regarding all of those past healthcare decisions impacting my family. I suppose that was to be expected. All of the "woulda,shoulda,couldas" came gushing out.
But here is the thing. Here, indeed, is your prescription that hopefully keeps you from being too worried or whining too much or second guessing yourself, or thinking "I am just too exhausted to continue!" amidst my personal health care crisis. And by the way, I have been a active participant in all of the previously mentioned counter-productive behaviors.
This life saving "medicine" is the assurance that you will get through the crisis (despite screwing things up more times than you can count). Without any additional pharamaceutical help, your present situation will be soon a past situation. Embrace the change. Think of it as being trapped into watching a bad horror flick (painful as it is). You desperately want to see how this ghoulish story ends. However, as luck would have it, the DVD goes belly up, dashing any chances to catch the story's conclusion. It may be a while before you are able to purchase a new, fancy BlueRay/DVD player and re-rent the movie. The waiting game is on.
Like this goofy analogy, we have little control over outcomes, especially when we desire them the most. However, rest assured, they will find us, regardless of its nature. And that is a good thing, in its own twisted way. We now know! I dare say, life would be both monotonous and unfilling if things were any different. There is great value in historical perspective in this portion of life's journey. We get to make the judgement call on whether the tincture of time is powerful medicine for healing of our souls. And please remember...Take as directed
blake
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Two ears, one mouth!
The "Talkover"...I hate it. It pushes my buttons in the worst possible way and creates a huge mass of human rage, from a fairly easy going, friendly pharmacist...occasionally like me!
So, what am I talking about? Remember? All of us have been victims. It is the person that thoughtlessly ambushes you half way in to a conversation where a cogent thought might be useful...say, counseling a patient on a new medicine. They talk "over" you with a question or a lecture or a whine or a complaint, or a whatever... before the first syllable is out of your mouth. It is like a listening disease! Its symptoms are closed ears and open mouth and usually with a foot in that same mouth, following close behind. Hello...two ears one mouth, ya'll!
Take today. If this patient at the pharmacy counter would have let me finish my thought (and I was fairly confident that I knew what I was talking about) before he popped off as if I was the stupidest guy in a white lab jacket, our verbal exchange wouldn't have escalated to ,"I don't like you Mr. Pharmacist!" and in response, "Quite frankly, Mr. Patient, I am not real fond of your present attitude either!" It didn't end well, but I deftly defused the situation... by what else? I walked away. Oh...that was mature!
So what does this have to do with being a better health care receiver and advocate? Isn't it obvious and yet almost impossible to accomplish? Improve those listening skills, rookie! Get in the game!
Oh, by the way, physicians are not immune to the "Talkover." Neither are pharmacists. In fact, in many ways we can become experts. This is not good. Just for giggles, be your own referee. On your next doctor's visit pay close attention to his or her "doctoring" listening skills. You make the call on the "Talkover" infraction. If you have to, throw the penaly flag! They should be trained listeners, although I have seen some disturbing exceptions on the health care field. Nevertheless, they are trying to dial in to what you are saying with both the verbal and non-verbal signals. Hold them to that standard. Many are very good!
And just for good measure, how about turning the tables on the well educated, highly trained doctors? First, don't do the "Talkover!" Stake your health claim quickly and sit back and listen to the MD's response. Stay on point and you will be enlightened. You will know your provider's level of investment, interest, expertise, etc. My daughter saw nearly 34 physicians before a trip to the Mayo Clinic nailed the diagnosis. THIRTY FOUR! She can immediately tell, within seconds into an appointment whether a doctor is genuinely engaged with her medical care or politely (or sometimes not so politely) dismiss her.
Remember, you are ultimately responsible for your health care and active listening is one of the first steps. It starts with your own body and mind. Trust yourself and act...move and listen...and then act again. Incidentally, follow up questions during these brief but critical moments with your doctor is not and I repeat not the "Talkover!" Just be wise with your timing.
Okay...I'm done, lest you criticize me for the "Talkover" and after today, I just might be very close. Beware of creepy Halloween pranks and of course... the "Talkover." Remember....Take, as directed!
blake
So, what am I talking about? Remember? All of us have been victims. It is the person that thoughtlessly ambushes you half way in to a conversation where a cogent thought might be useful...say, counseling a patient on a new medicine. They talk "over" you with a question or a lecture or a whine or a complaint, or a whatever... before the first syllable is out of your mouth. It is like a listening disease! Its symptoms are closed ears and open mouth and usually with a foot in that same mouth, following close behind. Hello...two ears one mouth, ya'll!
Take today. If this patient at the pharmacy counter would have let me finish my thought (and I was fairly confident that I knew what I was talking about) before he popped off as if I was the stupidest guy in a white lab jacket, our verbal exchange wouldn't have escalated to ,"I don't like you Mr. Pharmacist!" and in response, "Quite frankly, Mr. Patient, I am not real fond of your present attitude either!" It didn't end well, but I deftly defused the situation... by what else? I walked away. Oh...that was mature!
So what does this have to do with being a better health care receiver and advocate? Isn't it obvious and yet almost impossible to accomplish? Improve those listening skills, rookie! Get in the game!
Oh, by the way, physicians are not immune to the "Talkover." Neither are pharmacists. In fact, in many ways we can become experts. This is not good. Just for giggles, be your own referee. On your next doctor's visit pay close attention to his or her "doctoring" listening skills. You make the call on the "Talkover" infraction. If you have to, throw the penaly flag! They should be trained listeners, although I have seen some disturbing exceptions on the health care field. Nevertheless, they are trying to dial in to what you are saying with both the verbal and non-verbal signals. Hold them to that standard. Many are very good!
And just for good measure, how about turning the tables on the well educated, highly trained doctors? First, don't do the "Talkover!" Stake your health claim quickly and sit back and listen to the MD's response. Stay on point and you will be enlightened. You will know your provider's level of investment, interest, expertise, etc. My daughter saw nearly 34 physicians before a trip to the Mayo Clinic nailed the diagnosis. THIRTY FOUR! She can immediately tell, within seconds into an appointment whether a doctor is genuinely engaged with her medical care or politely (or sometimes not so politely) dismiss her.
Remember, you are ultimately responsible for your health care and active listening is one of the first steps. It starts with your own body and mind. Trust yourself and act...move and listen...and then act again. Incidentally, follow up questions during these brief but critical moments with your doctor is not and I repeat not the "Talkover!" Just be wise with your timing.
Okay...I'm done, lest you criticize me for the "Talkover" and after today, I just might be very close. Beware of creepy Halloween pranks and of course... the "Talkover." Remember....Take, as directed!
blake
Monday, October 17, 2011
Option is not a Failure!
It will happen, especially if a serious or indeed life threatening illness plays a family member like Whack-A-Mole; with the MD holding the Whack! I know what I am talking about, because I saw it first hand on the face of an ER physcian who thought he was option-less in helping my daughter. They won't let us admit her," said he. "What do you mean we are out of options?" I asked, panic stricken.
As you would guess, it is a hopeless feeling, but maybe more disturbing is the newness of that emotion for families experiencing their initial big health care crisis. I was stunned at the response. I had never heard such a thing and certainly this couldn't be happening in the 21st century. Are you telling me that the on-call orthopedic surgeon at the local hospital was not going to admit my daughter because of his hubris, ingorance, a poor judgement? If your remember, the reason was that his colleague instructed him not to do it because he thought my daughter was a drug seeker! Well, on hindsight, he was precise but misguided in his clinical assessment. After all, her femur shattered because of mis-diagnosed bone infection,so I'm guessin' she was looking for some pain relief in a round about way. Sorry, I flew off on an emotional tangent there for a sec...oophs!
So what is my point? As an educated health care recipient (and I mean get educated! Don't be coming in to my pharmacy not knowing what your doctor was supposed to be calling in for that nasty sinus infection!) and a advocate for that sick loved one, NEVER and I mean NEVER believe that you are out of options to get the needed treatment. You think that any doctor would accept that kind of "Sorry, there is nothing I can do?" response from one of his own. Believe me...he would fire the doctor and find a new one. I have done it and it was nothing personal. It was a matter of reminding that health care provider that I pay the bills, or more correctly speaking, my insurance company ponies up and then I disagree on the treatment approach.
And, guess what? You will find plenty of doctors out there that share your sentiments. A fiesty former Army Doc, also on duty that night, gladly shattered protocol, called and end run, and in less than an hour, my daughter was in a hospital bed, Morphine on board, and all vitals good. She was brilliant enough to not accept that woefully outdated argument of "Well, that is the way we have always done it around here!"
It will be a challenge to literally think out of the box and encourage that health care team that surrounds you to do the same. You are in crisis mode, so emotions are high and logic is suffering, Fear not, because those health care providers, like you, are are product of life's experience full of great and not so great ideas. Push 'em a little and ask what they would do if this were their child or mother or wife? If necessary take them to the brink of surrender. It won't be hard, most of them are overworked, sleep deprived, and often pick their battles wisely. I think that the pharmacist and doctors got so weary of me popping off as a pharmacist, they started asking me my insights about pain management to help my daughter and ultimately themselves (figuratively speaking).
Today, after three years. my daughter is thriving under the care of a skilled accupuncturist. And....this conservative, western medicine, trained pharmacist (aka,me) could not be happier. You listen to your intution. It is sometimes as valuable as that skilled surgeon or that new chemotherapy medicine. Even in the most sobering situation where thoughts and actions are so intense, almost surreal, you still have the option of doing NOTHING and leaving the outome to a force much greater that yours and mine. It can be liberating to be in that much control
So remember, if you think your out of options, maybe failure is the one! Just think about it... and of course remember...Take as directed.
blake
As you would guess, it is a hopeless feeling, but maybe more disturbing is the newness of that emotion for families experiencing their initial big health care crisis. I was stunned at the response. I had never heard such a thing and certainly this couldn't be happening in the 21st century. Are you telling me that the on-call orthopedic surgeon at the local hospital was not going to admit my daughter because of his hubris, ingorance, a poor judgement? If your remember, the reason was that his colleague instructed him not to do it because he thought my daughter was a drug seeker! Well, on hindsight, he was precise but misguided in his clinical assessment. After all, her femur shattered because of mis-diagnosed bone infection,so I'm guessin' she was looking for some pain relief in a round about way. Sorry, I flew off on an emotional tangent there for a sec...oophs!
So what is my point? As an educated health care recipient (and I mean get educated! Don't be coming in to my pharmacy not knowing what your doctor was supposed to be calling in for that nasty sinus infection!) and a advocate for that sick loved one, NEVER and I mean NEVER believe that you are out of options to get the needed treatment. You think that any doctor would accept that kind of "Sorry, there is nothing I can do?" response from one of his own. Believe me...he would fire the doctor and find a new one. I have done it and it was nothing personal. It was a matter of reminding that health care provider that I pay the bills, or more correctly speaking, my insurance company ponies up and then I disagree on the treatment approach.
And, guess what? You will find plenty of doctors out there that share your sentiments. A fiesty former Army Doc, also on duty that night, gladly shattered protocol, called and end run, and in less than an hour, my daughter was in a hospital bed, Morphine on board, and all vitals good. She was brilliant enough to not accept that woefully outdated argument of "Well, that is the way we have always done it around here!"
It will be a challenge to literally think out of the box and encourage that health care team that surrounds you to do the same. You are in crisis mode, so emotions are high and logic is suffering, Fear not, because those health care providers, like you, are are product of life's experience full of great and not so great ideas. Push 'em a little and ask what they would do if this were their child or mother or wife? If necessary take them to the brink of surrender. It won't be hard, most of them are overworked, sleep deprived, and often pick their battles wisely. I think that the pharmacist and doctors got so weary of me popping off as a pharmacist, they started asking me my insights about pain management to help my daughter and ultimately themselves (figuratively speaking).
Today, after three years. my daughter is thriving under the care of a skilled accupuncturist. And....this conservative, western medicine, trained pharmacist (aka,me) could not be happier. You listen to your intution. It is sometimes as valuable as that skilled surgeon or that new chemotherapy medicine. Even in the most sobering situation where thoughts and actions are so intense, almost surreal, you still have the option of doing NOTHING and leaving the outome to a force much greater that yours and mine. It can be liberating to be in that much control
So remember, if you think your out of options, maybe failure is the one! Just think about it... and of course remember...Take as directed.
blake
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Is the network picking us up for another season?
Darkness starts its rounds a little earlier each autumn day in the Northwest. It has been over a year since I have found the energy to write and 3 years ago when our family got schooled in the realities of healthcare as we presently know it. As you remember, two of our three children were prized pupils.
The twisted melancholy of the cooler season has drawn me back to pen some thoughts. Tis no big secret blogs evolve, mostly for the writer, since in my case there are few followers, but they are most loyal. I like loyalty. I applaud loyalty!
Moving forward...I think I will continue my/our/your story. Call it an occasional medical theme of sorts, if you like, or think of it as the network gave the go ahead for a few more episodes of "U.S. Healthcare"...without the ratings to justify the quality. It is my little way of sticking it to FACEBOOK social networking crowd, since I don't do facebook. (I do have my reasons and they are obnoxiously dogmatic! A topic for later rants).
I like the idea of helping those individuals facing crisis with medical care. On the self serving front, it will ultimately be cathartic for me. I do get a little PTSD when I visit a hospital at this time of year. Any therapy is good therapy, the way I see it. That is my way of saying that I empathize with the struggles of those care-givers trying to take care of loved ones when they are seriously ill. Wanna here some irony. My daughter Michelle is always telling me, "Dad...get over it!" And I wasn't even the one with ICU time and a couple of surgeries under my belt
So, in the spirit of non linear thought, I shall write of random events surrounding our health education here at the Nelson's. I think you will agree that I have had some time to digest a couple of years of memories. By the way, if your curious regarding the state of health of my "N of 2" (that's statistic talk for my 2 children)they are getting on rather nicely. Let say their progress is directionally correct, but as of yet, not made whole.
I have learned much and committ to staying away from the weary, whining, worried camp with my posts. I will just share a simple narrative of hope and hope people get it. Please remember, I intend to offend nobody and I am not that angry. My perspective still comes from a pharmacist, former big pharma lackey (sic), and a father that watched his kids get sucked into healthcare...for better or worse. In fact, it might be a good idea for you to do a quick review of my older posts, so that when my season opener comes around, you will have a nice little medical history in that fancy "chart" of yours.
If my efforts or hobby or "whatever you would like to call it" is occasionally thought provoking...cool! So, to all my friends, enemies, and frienemies, knock yourself out. Humor me every once in a while and drop in. Remember, "Take...as directed!"
The twisted melancholy of the cooler season has drawn me back to pen some thoughts. Tis no big secret blogs evolve, mostly for the writer, since in my case there are few followers, but they are most loyal. I like loyalty. I applaud loyalty!
Moving forward...I think I will continue my/our/your story. Call it an occasional medical theme of sorts, if you like, or think of it as the network gave the go ahead for a few more episodes of "U.S. Healthcare"...without the ratings to justify the quality. It is my little way of sticking it to FACEBOOK social networking crowd, since I don't do facebook. (I do have my reasons and they are obnoxiously dogmatic! A topic for later rants).
I like the idea of helping those individuals facing crisis with medical care. On the self serving front, it will ultimately be cathartic for me. I do get a little PTSD when I visit a hospital at this time of year. Any therapy is good therapy, the way I see it. That is my way of saying that I empathize with the struggles of those care-givers trying to take care of loved ones when they are seriously ill. Wanna here some irony. My daughter Michelle is always telling me, "Dad...get over it!" And I wasn't even the one with ICU time and a couple of surgeries under my belt
So, in the spirit of non linear thought, I shall write of random events surrounding our health education here at the Nelson's. I think you will agree that I have had some time to digest a couple of years of memories. By the way, if your curious regarding the state of health of my "N of 2" (that's statistic talk for my 2 children)they are getting on rather nicely. Let say their progress is directionally correct, but as of yet, not made whole.
I have learned much and committ to staying away from the weary, whining, worried camp with my posts. I will just share a simple narrative of hope and hope people get it. Please remember, I intend to offend nobody and I am not that angry. My perspective still comes from a pharmacist, former big pharma lackey (sic), and a father that watched his kids get sucked into healthcare...for better or worse. In fact, it might be a good idea for you to do a quick review of my older posts, so that when my season opener comes around, you will have a nice little medical history in that fancy "chart" of yours.
If my efforts or hobby or "whatever you would like to call it" is occasionally thought provoking...cool! So, to all my friends, enemies, and frienemies, knock yourself out. Humor me every once in a while and drop in. Remember, "Take...as directed!"
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Humor Me after I pay the bill!
My youngest daughter just completed her latest surgery; a mere tune-up of sorts compared to her past dramatic health history. However, this rant has nothing to do with her oral surgery... rather it is all about another form of inflicted pain: Payment of Services Rendered.
Of nothing else, my experience has taught me the value of due diligence when it comes to insurance coverage. It is an extremely arcane world, understood only by its sordid designers. They talk of "EOBs,In Network versus Out of Network, co-insurance,co-payments, and maximum out of pocket costs." And...those are the things that I understand! I was confident in my prepratory efforts and expected all players in this health care game to claim victory. Fat Chance!
Regretfully, the pain I referenced earlier came from a most unexpected site. The female keepers of the finances! Oh sure, it is all fun and games at the front office and in the back exam room. In fact, one couldn't help thinking that the oral surgeon might be akin to Captain America. The supporting cast was also accomodating, professional, and slapped on their best patient advocacy faces,(which included dazzling-white bleached teeth). And why? Simple...the money for service deal hadn't gone down yet. Make no mistake, they WERE helpful in the "I will show you HOW to get the money so I can quickly take if from YOU and then get GRUMPY" category. Well...maybe grumpy is a tad severe. How about: deliberate indifference! That ticket is even worse...at least, grumpiness takes a little forethought! You see, my daughter had a little post-op complication requiring attention. Their response, "I am sorry, what did you say her name was again?" Seriously...
So next time your scheduled for a some time "under the knife", enjoy the joyous preliminaries, because after your cash will soon be parted, you will continue be sliced up! Tragically...typical!
Remember...take as directed
blake
Of nothing else, my experience has taught me the value of due diligence when it comes to insurance coverage. It is an extremely arcane world, understood only by its sordid designers. They talk of "EOBs,In Network versus Out of Network, co-insurance,co-payments, and maximum out of pocket costs." And...those are the things that I understand! I was confident in my prepratory efforts and expected all players in this health care game to claim victory. Fat Chance!
Regretfully, the pain I referenced earlier came from a most unexpected site. The female keepers of the finances! Oh sure, it is all fun and games at the front office and in the back exam room. In fact, one couldn't help thinking that the oral surgeon might be akin to Captain America. The supporting cast was also accomodating, professional, and slapped on their best patient advocacy faces,(which included dazzling-white bleached teeth). And why? Simple...the money for service deal hadn't gone down yet. Make no mistake, they WERE helpful in the "I will show you HOW to get the money so I can quickly take if from YOU and then get GRUMPY" category. Well...maybe grumpy is a tad severe. How about: deliberate indifference! That ticket is even worse...at least, grumpiness takes a little forethought! You see, my daughter had a little post-op complication requiring attention. Their response, "I am sorry, what did you say her name was again?" Seriously...
So next time your scheduled for a some time "under the knife", enjoy the joyous preliminaries, because after your cash will soon be parted, you will continue be sliced up! Tragically...typical!
Remember...take as directed
blake
Friday, July 23, 2010
Tell me where it really hurts?
I can no longer bear listening to Jesse Jackson, President Obama, or the occasional NPR pundit. It is just too painful! Why, you may ask? The reason, the discussion thread is all scripted. Where is the emotion, the spontaniety, and cutting to the chase? Give me some Hydrocodone and fast! Oh wait, that might prove to be too difficult!
To that end, I am throwing away my well thought out communicative approach and write from my cold, calculating heart about this subject. You see... me, a Dad, a pharmacist, can't get a prescription to ease my pain to save my life or better still, my daughter's life!!! Check out previous blogs and you will see, pain management is a big deal with her. And yet, last week after her 5th surgery in the past 24 months, she is still dismissed as a Hyrdocodone seeker and worst, her concerned mother, treated as white trash on the score. Seriously, Haven't we seen this movie before?
So...here is my solution. I have discovered after standing behind the pharmacy counter for years, our family is going to fulfill the expectations of those indifferent surgeons (who by the way, have rarely had surgery and thus, poor pain advocates). I am quitting my job, applying for state assistance, move into a "van down by the river." That will give me plenty of time to focus on clever reasons on why I should get my Hydrocodone for that pesky "skin condition." Those are the people that seem to get the prescription without a hiccup.
In short...I know pain managment is going to be looking good around the old homestead. I now know where it really hurts!
And remember...take as directed
Blake...your future un-employed pharmacist
To that end, I am throwing away my well thought out communicative approach and write from my cold, calculating heart about this subject. You see... me, a Dad, a pharmacist, can't get a prescription to ease my pain to save my life or better still, my daughter's life!!! Check out previous blogs and you will see, pain management is a big deal with her. And yet, last week after her 5th surgery in the past 24 months, she is still dismissed as a Hyrdocodone seeker and worst, her concerned mother, treated as white trash on the score. Seriously, Haven't we seen this movie before?
So...here is my solution. I have discovered after standing behind the pharmacy counter for years, our family is going to fulfill the expectations of those indifferent surgeons (who by the way, have rarely had surgery and thus, poor pain advocates). I am quitting my job, applying for state assistance, move into a "van down by the river." That will give me plenty of time to focus on clever reasons on why I should get my Hydrocodone for that pesky "skin condition." Those are the people that seem to get the prescription without a hiccup.
In short...I know pain managment is going to be looking good around the old homestead. I now know where it really hurts!
And remember...take as directed
Blake...your future un-employed pharmacist
Thursday, April 22, 2010
You can't have it both ways!
As a pharmacist, there is not a day that goes by where I don't here from my patients about the big, bad, and very rich pharmaceutical companies. Regardless of my past life in pharma, I will not play an apologist role. Hey, despite what you might think of me as a former drug salesperson, I agree with most of their arguments, even if their facts are a little emotionally whacked! It is not like I am feeling any love from the drug companies.
However, this is where I don't get it. If patients are so concerned over the oft obscene price charged on their last prescription, then doesn't it follow that they should know something about the medicine that they are whining about....SERIOUSLY!
I can't even count the number of times in a week where I hear, "Ah, just fill whatever I'm due!" or "My doctor just called something in for me...have know idea what it is, but...hey, go ahead and fill it!" or my new best favorite, "I think I am supposed to refill the 3 DOLLAR prescription!" Are you kidding me? This level of communication almost frightens me as much as a misfilled Rx.
I am sure on of one thing today. If I coughed up 40K for some new wheels, you can bet your next Advil Coupon I would know at minimum, the make and model of the car that my credit union will soon own! See my point? So, please tell me in painful detail which medicine you need me to refill and then we can discuss the strategy of going short on pharameucitcal stocks.
Remember...take as directed,
Blake
However, this is where I don't get it. If patients are so concerned over the oft obscene price charged on their last prescription, then doesn't it follow that they should know something about the medicine that they are whining about....SERIOUSLY!
I can't even count the number of times in a week where I hear, "Ah, just fill whatever I'm due!" or "My doctor just called something in for me...have know idea what it is, but...hey, go ahead and fill it!" or my new best favorite, "I think I am supposed to refill the 3 DOLLAR prescription!" Are you kidding me? This level of communication almost frightens me as much as a misfilled Rx.
I am sure on of one thing today. If I coughed up 40K for some new wheels, you can bet your next Advil Coupon I would know at minimum, the make and model of the car that my credit union will soon own! See my point? So, please tell me in painful detail which medicine you need me to refill and then we can discuss the strategy of going short on pharameucitcal stocks.
Remember...take as directed,
Blake
Monday, March 15, 2010
It is RPh not MD
We all like free advice and given the recent economic slump, even bad advice might be worth something. But...there is a limit. A couple of weeks ago, an elderly gentlemen snuck up on me at the pharmacy counter. I looked away for just a second and BAM...there he was! Now, that might not sound all that frightening to you, especially if you are a pharmacist. It is all in a days work.
But hey... you didn't see this guy's left eye. The color was a ghastly deep, dark, blood red. The reason: A large wood chip from his favorite chain saw just happened to find his eye. The hemmorhage was breath taking. And as you would guess, chunks of wood moving at bullet speed tend to do that. It was horrible and I was certain that any minute that eye would be violently erupting on my recently cleaned pharmacy counter. I am sure you can feel the angst. Then, it happened, and it was not the pop of bodily fluid. It was something more scarier than the impressive injury at hand. It was his unbelievable question, "Do you think Visine will help?"
Now, I think I was the one in semi-shock state. Look, as pharmacists, we are secretly flattered by the trust given to us by all of you loyal patients. Many confide in us at a deeper level than their physician, pastor, bishop, or for that matter, wife! I have even heard on occasions people ask, "Well...aren't you a guys doctors?"
But serious medical emergencies like this are way out of our league and please understand our limitations. As a result, I will quickly point you to the nearest emergency room or urgent-care clinic. I will then remind you that RPh stand for registered pharmacist, not medical doctor. So next time, you have a serious health problem, ask yourself, "Will Visine will help me?" Then, go see a doctor..stat!
and remember...take as directed,
Blake
But hey... you didn't see this guy's left eye. The color was a ghastly deep, dark, blood red. The reason: A large wood chip from his favorite chain saw just happened to find his eye. The hemmorhage was breath taking. And as you would guess, chunks of wood moving at bullet speed tend to do that. It was horrible and I was certain that any minute that eye would be violently erupting on my recently cleaned pharmacy counter. I am sure you can feel the angst. Then, it happened, and it was not the pop of bodily fluid. It was something more scarier than the impressive injury at hand. It was his unbelievable question, "Do you think Visine will help?"
Now, I think I was the one in semi-shock state. Look, as pharmacists, we are secretly flattered by the trust given to us by all of you loyal patients. Many confide in us at a deeper level than their physician, pastor, bishop, or for that matter, wife! I have even heard on occasions people ask, "Well...aren't you a guys doctors?"
But serious medical emergencies like this are way out of our league and please understand our limitations. As a result, I will quickly point you to the nearest emergency room or urgent-care clinic. I will then remind you that RPh stand for registered pharmacist, not medical doctor. So next time, you have a serious health problem, ask yourself, "Will Visine will help me?" Then, go see a doctor..stat!
and remember...take as directed,
Blake
Thursday, February 25, 2010
I want their insurance plan
My daughter's bill from last month's trip to the Mayo Clinic finally arrived...high anxiety, as you would guess. I had to sit down after glancing at the charges. And...it is not what you think. Unbelievable...the bottom line literally showed that we CAN have great health care in America at a very reasonable cost. 7 frigid days in Rochester, Minnesota and I am not medically broke! Indeed, I was lightheaded with "Explaination of Benefits" euphoria!
And then...I had to go and ruin it all! A rookie mistake at best, as are many decisions made with high emotional value. In a lapse of judgement, driven by my civic duty, I tuned into President Obama's live health care "summit." What was I thinking? It took only seconds for the torture to begin as I listened to the same ole' roster of congressional leaders pandering to the tv camera, heavy on the partisan baffoonery!
Seriously...do these clowns think those of us serious about health care reform look at this type of media event as nothing more than really bad television. So...I got thinking and thought to myself, "If I were in that room, what would I want?" (besides that sweet meal they had at mid-day). The answer was easy and I think I may have even solved the hotly debated issue of a one payor health plan. This one is free on me, boys and girls!
In short, I want the same health care plan that every member of that room enjoys as a public servant! All those old guys looked pretty healthy and spry to me. It appears that they are getting the "best health care in the world" that we here about, ad nauseum. Instead of McCain and Obama re-bashing big bad pharma, or re-hashing old campaign promises, I would have liked to see the President's and the former Wanna-be-President's insurance plan specifics. Let's debate your present monthly premiums, annual deductibles, maximum out of pocket expenses, pharmacy benefits, and the like.
So...all of you smug Democrats and selfish Republicans in Washington, please get back to work and start over on that 2700 page health care juggernaut. Maybe you can lighten the text and go for: Blake's Number 1 Payor Plan....YOURS!
Remember...take as directed. Oh yeah, Beltway...I'm not kidding on this one.
Blake
And then...I had to go and ruin it all! A rookie mistake at best, as are many decisions made with high emotional value. In a lapse of judgement, driven by my civic duty, I tuned into President Obama's live health care "summit." What was I thinking? It took only seconds for the torture to begin as I listened to the same ole' roster of congressional leaders pandering to the tv camera, heavy on the partisan baffoonery!
Seriously...do these clowns think those of us serious about health care reform look at this type of media event as nothing more than really bad television. So...I got thinking and thought to myself, "If I were in that room, what would I want?" (besides that sweet meal they had at mid-day). The answer was easy and I think I may have even solved the hotly debated issue of a one payor health plan. This one is free on me, boys and girls!
In short, I want the same health care plan that every member of that room enjoys as a public servant! All those old guys looked pretty healthy and spry to me. It appears that they are getting the "best health care in the world" that we here about, ad nauseum. Instead of McCain and Obama re-bashing big bad pharma, or re-hashing old campaign promises, I would have liked to see the President's and the former Wanna-be-President's insurance plan specifics. Let's debate your present monthly premiums, annual deductibles, maximum out of pocket expenses, pharmacy benefits, and the like.
So...all of you smug Democrats and selfish Republicans in Washington, please get back to work and start over on that 2700 page health care juggernaut. Maybe you can lighten the text and go for: Blake's Number 1 Payor Plan....YOURS!
Remember...take as directed. Oh yeah, Beltway...I'm not kidding on this one.
Blake
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Ahhh...satisfaction
Yup...here comes curve number two! Some of you have heard the term "search satisfaction." It is a common malady amongst the human condition and simply put...it is the trap we all fall in when we desperately grasp the first solution for our problem; even if it isn't the optimal one. A case in point is when you quickly jumped on that "perfect" job and soon found out that there was a "perfecter" job a week later. Ouch!
The best of physicians are not above this sometimes fatal error, so please make sure that you help them steer clear of the consequences. After all, satisfy your health first! My point is that next time you see your favorite doctor and it seems your problem is too quickly remedied, it just might be.
In previous blogs, I made mention of my daughter's osteomyelitis (big name for bone infection) being brushed aside in favor of a doctor's own short sighted diagnosis of his personal satisfaction. It was a rookie mistake and I asure you that in the past, he has "dressed down" many residents for making the same gross error. He did come clean and I never erased his apology from my answering machinge. I am sure those past residents and present "big boy" doctors might enjoy listening to the message. I am also guessing they would get a little satisfaction of their own, at their past mentor's expense! Ahhh...payback!
And remember...take as directed...it will help the pain...some!
Blake
The best of physicians are not above this sometimes fatal error, so please make sure that you help them steer clear of the consequences. After all, satisfy your health first! My point is that next time you see your favorite doctor and it seems your problem is too quickly remedied, it just might be.
In previous blogs, I made mention of my daughter's osteomyelitis (big name for bone infection) being brushed aside in favor of a doctor's own short sighted diagnosis of his personal satisfaction. It was a rookie mistake and I asure you that in the past, he has "dressed down" many residents for making the same gross error. He did come clean and I never erased his apology from my answering machinge. I am sure those past residents and present "big boy" doctors might enjoy listening to the message. I am also guessing they would get a little satisfaction of their own, at their past mentor's expense! Ahhh...payback!
And remember...take as directed...it will help the pain...some!
Blake
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Trust but Verify!
As promised in the last blog posting, here comes the first of many sharp curves on our health care road trip.
Most of us have grown up trusting modern medicine unconditionally. However, my experience of late with modern medicine has caused me to pause and reevaluate. Therefore, I am now adopting a not-so-new mantra popularized by a couple of past U.S. Presidential Aministrations: Trust but Verify!
How appropriate is this approach when it comes to the "buy in" on a physician's diagnosis. Let me give you a quick illustration and hopefully it will be instructive the next time you are handed a prescription.
For over two years, my youngest daugther was mis-diagnosed as clinically depressed. She went through more antidepressants than you can shake a stick at...and that deal truly was depressing. The upside is that this first of many comedies of error in her health care has transformed me into a better pharmacist and is "good copy" for many antecdotes to come. (By the way, all this will make sense when we talk about her real diagnosis made at the Mayo Clinic a few weeks ago. If interested, Google: POTS for more information).
So, to make a long story short, it wasn't depression, it was HYPOTHYROIDISM!!! Somebody neglected to do a simple lab test. Furthermore, you don't have to be a pharmacist to know that thyroid medicine is the BEST ANTIDEPRESSANT. It is the gas that run's our body's engine. Without it we bloat and put on weight, we get sluggish, our hair falls out, our nails are brittle, we are cold all the time, we sleep too much, and yes we actually become...depressed.
The names of the medicines needed for this type of depression are not Prozac or Paxil or Pristiq. Instead, they go by Synthroid or L-Thyroxine or Levoxyl or good ole' Armour Thyroid. I have a good idea of what I am talking about here. I sold Prozac for years and rubbed shoulders with some of the foremost experts in clinical depression that could be found anywhere. They taught me that it is as important to know what depression IS NOT as it is to know what IT IS!... I think that came out okay. Despite what you see on every direct to consumer on the latest and greatest antidepressant, everyone does NOT have depression.
So...go ahead, trust and verify that your doctor can reach for either a sample of Pristiq...or maybe better still, Synthroid. And remember...take as directed
Blake
Most of us have grown up trusting modern medicine unconditionally. However, my experience of late with modern medicine has caused me to pause and reevaluate. Therefore, I am now adopting a not-so-new mantra popularized by a couple of past U.S. Presidential Aministrations: Trust but Verify!
How appropriate is this approach when it comes to the "buy in" on a physician's diagnosis. Let me give you a quick illustration and hopefully it will be instructive the next time you are handed a prescription.
For over two years, my youngest daugther was mis-diagnosed as clinically depressed. She went through more antidepressants than you can shake a stick at...and that deal truly was depressing. The upside is that this first of many comedies of error in her health care has transformed me into a better pharmacist and is "good copy" for many antecdotes to come. (By the way, all this will make sense when we talk about her real diagnosis made at the Mayo Clinic a few weeks ago. If interested, Google: POTS for more information).
So, to make a long story short, it wasn't depression, it was HYPOTHYROIDISM!!! Somebody neglected to do a simple lab test. Furthermore, you don't have to be a pharmacist to know that thyroid medicine is the BEST ANTIDEPRESSANT. It is the gas that run's our body's engine. Without it we bloat and put on weight, we get sluggish, our hair falls out, our nails are brittle, we are cold all the time, we sleep too much, and yes we actually become...depressed.
The names of the medicines needed for this type of depression are not Prozac or Paxil or Pristiq. Instead, they go by Synthroid or L-Thyroxine or Levoxyl or good ole' Armour Thyroid. I have a good idea of what I am talking about here. I sold Prozac for years and rubbed shoulders with some of the foremost experts in clinical depression that could be found anywhere. They taught me that it is as important to know what depression IS NOT as it is to know what IT IS!... I think that came out okay. Despite what you see on every direct to consumer on the latest and greatest antidepressant, everyone does NOT have depression.
So...go ahead, trust and verify that your doctor can reach for either a sample of Pristiq...or maybe better still, Synthroid. And remember...take as directed
Blake
Sunday, January 24, 2010
"The pet monkey seemed like a good idea at the time"
That phrase probably means little to you. However, the words are of some significance when used around our house. In essence, it is symbolic that somebody amongst us made a bad decision and let us learn the all-important principle of of non-repitition when it comes to future said opportunities. The point is, what a great thing it is to be able to change direction, even in mid-stream on many of our intentions, even those on my little portion of the "Blogosphere River!"
The initial catalyst for my posts was my daughter, Michelle, as she has made her ghastly journey through the health care system...and regretfully there is nothing systematic about it. Last count, she has seen over 30 physicians over the past few years before finally getting a diagnosis (see previous blog post). If that wasn't enough, my son soon followed with his brutal share of health problems. Understandably, I wanted to land a punch on the cheek of medicine thru tongue in cheek verbage. It was random and emotional and soon, 3 followers were gracious enough to flatter me with their loyalty. Life is good!!! But all those good things must come to an end.
So, in the spirit of excellence in journalism (not that I would know), I want to change things up a bit and personally share in some of the highlights and mostly lowlights of our trip through the perfect storm...only in reverse. Please join us as we go backwards so we can do better forward...if that makes any sense. What is this prescription supposed to do for me, you ask? I have enough "tough pills to swallow" in life as it is...(notice the self promo tact here!)
Regretfully, the answer is not so obvious. Yes there will be stories. However, there is more to it. I am just not sure what that "more" is...yet. All I can ask is for you to stick with me in the next few months and I can help you becoming a better navigator when it comes to getting medical help. Not only Michelle, but our entire family is the vehicle to assist you in finding an alternate route when heading toward the doctor. So...please, get in, buckle up, and enjoy the ride! The first curve is coming up soon!
remember...take as directed.
Blake
The initial catalyst for my posts was my daughter, Michelle, as she has made her ghastly journey through the health care system...and regretfully there is nothing systematic about it. Last count, she has seen over 30 physicians over the past few years before finally getting a diagnosis (see previous blog post). If that wasn't enough, my son soon followed with his brutal share of health problems. Understandably, I wanted to land a punch on the cheek of medicine thru tongue in cheek verbage. It was random and emotional and soon, 3 followers were gracious enough to flatter me with their loyalty. Life is good!!! But all those good things must come to an end.
So, in the spirit of excellence in journalism (not that I would know), I want to change things up a bit and personally share in some of the highlights and mostly lowlights of our trip through the perfect storm...only in reverse. Please join us as we go backwards so we can do better forward...if that makes any sense. What is this prescription supposed to do for me, you ask? I have enough "tough pills to swallow" in life as it is...(notice the self promo tact here!)
Regretfully, the answer is not so obvious. Yes there will be stories. However, there is more to it. I am just not sure what that "more" is...yet. All I can ask is for you to stick with me in the next few months and I can help you becoming a better navigator when it comes to getting medical help. Not only Michelle, but our entire family is the vehicle to assist you in finding an alternate route when heading toward the doctor. So...please, get in, buckle up, and enjoy the ride! The first curve is coming up soon!
remember...take as directed.
Blake
Saturday, January 9, 2010
I'll have Mayo on the side!
" Oh...This is how medicine is supposed to roll!" This is my departing thought as I leave frigid Rochester, Minnesota and the world renowned Mayo Clinic. Now that my daughter's 6 year health nightmare has ended, it might as well be 85 and sunny outside.
A week ago, we came here desperate and anxious knowing that this was the end of the line for family answers. There were no options remaining. We have despised the endless and brutal perfect storm for years. Without faith and hope (and not always present, I assure you) it nearly destroyed an otherwise very happy family unit. Never underestimate on how ghastly chronic illness can be...and it does not affect just the patient.
However, there are very few moments in life where expecations will not only be met, but exceeded. It happened here and the experience has been epic! We now have a very personal and real life example of the fact. We have answers.
I have stared at this page for days, knowing that I have no skill package that can adequately articulate our journey and more importantly our deepest feelings. I can only tell you that the weather cleared and we are happy with the forecast.
So...let me cut to the chase. If the "health wolf" is at the door, you do not have to answer it. You can move and answer it elsewhere. What I am trying to say is physicians really do care (You have to come to southeast Minnesota find them, though), they actually are good capitalists and put patients first and profits second...hope that didn't sound too cliche;they set politics and egos aside. And most of all...they can communicate with another doctor who might see things different or is better and smarter about what is going on with the patient. They even team up!The Nelson's woke up and now realize that the health care we have been receiving for years (with few exceptions) has been incredibly mediocre. None of us can afford this harsh reality.
Why, I ask myself, can't US medicine clue in on the Mayo method of integrated medicine. Integration...a big word for were are all on the same page on how to take care of a patient. It starts with listening...no bias approaches...no dismissive attitudes...I am not crazy or depressed...and no first question of "What insurance are we billing?"
Ok already, I will step off the soap box, before someones knocks me off. But...one more thought from the pharmacist filter. There was no talk of drug therapy until the last day of a week of appointments seeing a number of medical sub-specialty. How refreshing was that and how odd is that statement coming from a druggist? Now don't get me wrong, your prescription should include life changing medicine. Just don't forget to get an accurate diagnosis of what is wrong and what is NOT wrong with the you before the trip to the pharmacy. And...if your serious about your health, come to the Mayo Clinic and get your prescription filled!
Remember...take as directed and thanks to all at the Mayo
Blake
A week ago, we came here desperate and anxious knowing that this was the end of the line for family answers. There were no options remaining. We have despised the endless and brutal perfect storm for years. Without faith and hope (and not always present, I assure you) it nearly destroyed an otherwise very happy family unit. Never underestimate on how ghastly chronic illness can be...and it does not affect just the patient.
However, there are very few moments in life where expecations will not only be met, but exceeded. It happened here and the experience has been epic! We now have a very personal and real life example of the fact. We have answers.
I have stared at this page for days, knowing that I have no skill package that can adequately articulate our journey and more importantly our deepest feelings. I can only tell you that the weather cleared and we are happy with the forecast.
So...let me cut to the chase. If the "health wolf" is at the door, you do not have to answer it. You can move and answer it elsewhere. What I am trying to say is physicians really do care (You have to come to southeast Minnesota find them, though), they actually are good capitalists and put patients first and profits second...hope that didn't sound too cliche;they set politics and egos aside. And most of all...they can communicate with another doctor who might see things different or is better and smarter about what is going on with the patient. They even team up!The Nelson's woke up and now realize that the health care we have been receiving for years (with few exceptions) has been incredibly mediocre. None of us can afford this harsh reality.
Why, I ask myself, can't US medicine clue in on the Mayo method of integrated medicine. Integration...a big word for were are all on the same page on how to take care of a patient. It starts with listening...no bias approaches...no dismissive attitudes...I am not crazy or depressed...and no first question of "What insurance are we billing?"
Ok already, I will step off the soap box, before someones knocks me off. But...one more thought from the pharmacist filter. There was no talk of drug therapy until the last day of a week of appointments seeing a number of medical sub-specialty. How refreshing was that and how odd is that statement coming from a druggist? Now don't get me wrong, your prescription should include life changing medicine. Just don't forget to get an accurate diagnosis of what is wrong and what is NOT wrong with the you before the trip to the pharmacy. And...if your serious about your health, come to the Mayo Clinic and get your prescription filled!
Remember...take as directed and thanks to all at the Mayo
Blake
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Lose the Christmas Letters...Please!
At this blessed time of the year nothing says "You are so cool and I am such a Loser" better than those truly obnoxius Christmas Letters!!! Now, I know that your intentions are mostly sincere and well meaning, but please, give it a rest!! Your seasonal bundles of joy that clog mailboxes come across as self serving and more nauseating than last week's egg nog! So today, in the true spirit of "Bah Humbug," I have decided these holiday notes just made Blake's "Things I Really Hate" List!! It is truly obnoxious!
Maybe all of the holiday cheer has clouded your judgement during this season of peace and eternal hope. Maybe your forgetting that your fortune of late has allowed you the luxury of jetting off to exotic places with family and friends that are truly happy and healthy!!!
However, let us not forget that most NOT sending our their annual "brag report" are too busy paying for the latest MRIs or that bag full of prescription meds. Merry Christmas to All of You!
I have a dear friend and will always be like a brother to me. Every Christmas he shares his pituresque lifestyle and from all outward appearances, his family hasn't a care in the world. Like many, he lives in a bubble of semi-ignorant bliss, but God bless him! I sincerely hope that the wolf never comes knocking at his door. But if that wiley predator shows teeth, I will empathize with my friend, knowing a bit about life's true struggle. I will fill sad and I will gladly fill his prescriptions for his pain and suffering. Then....I will send him my Christmas Letter!
To my sparse and loyal readers, have a great and meaningful Holiday Season and remember to...take as directed,
Blake
Maybe all of the holiday cheer has clouded your judgement during this season of peace and eternal hope. Maybe your forgetting that your fortune of late has allowed you the luxury of jetting off to exotic places with family and friends that are truly happy and healthy!!!
However, let us not forget that most NOT sending our their annual "brag report" are too busy paying for the latest MRIs or that bag full of prescription meds. Merry Christmas to All of You!
I have a dear friend and will always be like a brother to me. Every Christmas he shares his pituresque lifestyle and from all outward appearances, his family hasn't a care in the world. Like many, he lives in a bubble of semi-ignorant bliss, but God bless him! I sincerely hope that the wolf never comes knocking at his door. But if that wiley predator shows teeth, I will empathize with my friend, knowing a bit about life's true struggle. I will fill sad and I will gladly fill his prescriptions for his pain and suffering. Then....I will send him my Christmas Letter!
To my sparse and loyal readers, have a great and meaningful Holiday Season and remember to...take as directed,
Blake
Saturday, November 21, 2009
What's behind those TV drug ads?
A most warm and generous welcome to my loyal readers of late. I think I am up to 4...5 at the most. Any rate, I have been doing some thinking lately regarding my blog and its contents. As some of you may know, a good old fashion firing from pharmaceutical sales job a year ago (come the day before Thanksgiving) was the catalyst for me to put my thoughts to work. It also has motivated me (...I don't know if that is the right word or not) to write a book about the drug industry. It is an insiders guide, if you will, to what really happens behind those slick drug ads that interrupt an otherwise pleasant evening of watching television. I am approaching the subject as a former drug peddler/pharmacist/MBA kind-of-a-thing.
So, in the spirit of a "customercentric" feedback (that's a big word pharamceutical companies use to show that they are really fulfilling their customers needs), I am looking for some feedback. Would any of you take a little extra time and read over a chapter at each blog posting? I am doing a little of my own market research. If just one of you says, "Blake...knock yourself out!" I will do it. And if you like the content, I will seek a publisher and chase a dream I have had for some time.
Hope to hear from you soon and remember...take as directed!
Blake
So, in the spirit of a "customercentric" feedback (that's a big word pharamceutical companies use to show that they are really fulfilling their customers needs), I am looking for some feedback. Would any of you take a little extra time and read over a chapter at each blog posting? I am doing a little of my own market research. If just one of you says, "Blake...knock yourself out!" I will do it. And if you like the content, I will seek a publisher and chase a dream I have had for some time.
Hope to hear from you soon and remember...take as directed!
Blake
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
