My newest nightmare
I've been hesitant to post about this becuase it's embarassing, but I realize that just lets the guilty off easy. I have to stand up for my rights and those of us who might not have the same strength or platform as I do.
I went to our local pharmacy to pick up my many prescriptions I need on a daily basis just to survive. Not live, mind you, just survive. From my blog, you know of my health struggles over the past three plus years. As I'm standing in line, the entire pharmacy area is standing-room-only, I hear the clerk say, "Do we have to call the Secret Service to get this refilled?" At the same time, she's holding up the little red basket with my prescription as well as a bottle in it with my name on it. The pharmacist looks over and smirks as well. Then he notices me and turns his head. I'm cringing and want the floor to open up and swallow me. It's my bottle and prescription. It's me they're making fun of!
I didn't attack them or even say a word about what was said when I picked up my order, but ran out as fast as possible. It was too embarassing and I didn't want to draw more attention to myself. Today, I had to go back in and get monthly refills. The clerk isn't there, but the pharmacist is. I ask to quietly speak to him in private. I'm already embarassed enough and didn't want to make a huge public issue if something could be worked out.
He denied it happened and said he didn't remember it and didn't even know who I was. Of course, once I said my name, the story changed to he always makes sure he immediately works on my order since I've had trouble with them before losing orders and I get so many items filled every month. He still denied remembering a thing about it. I asked if it were the least bit funny and how horrible I feel walking in there now. If they are brazen enough to laugh at my health's expense when I'm standing right there, what do they say behind my back? What about other customers who have the misfortune of needing to go out of town to specialists and need the refills called in? Who will speak for them? I might not have a million followers here, but the ones who do read regularly are smart, literate and I trust you to tell me who is out of line in this.
There's my story. The comments are open for people to give their thoughts. If I'm wrong and it's perfectly ok what was done, I want to know. Maybe I am just too sensitive? If I'm right, what do I do now? I've asked that the clerk never touch my medical information again, but the damage is already done. I honestly don't feel comfortable going there and now I'm going to have to find a new pharmacy (and I live in a VERY small town) to fill my extensive health needs every month. I'm worried about who else they've told the story to and who all is laughing at me. As I said, this is a small town.
I went to our local pharmacy to pick up my many prescriptions I need on a daily basis just to survive. Not live, mind you, just survive. From my blog, you know of my health struggles over the past three plus years. As I'm standing in line, the entire pharmacy area is standing-room-only, I hear the clerk say, "Do we have to call the Secret Service to get this refilled?" At the same time, she's holding up the little red basket with my prescription as well as a bottle in it with my name on it. The pharmacist looks over and smirks as well. Then he notices me and turns his head. I'm cringing and want the floor to open up and swallow me. It's my bottle and prescription. It's me they're making fun of!
I didn't attack them or even say a word about what was said when I picked up my order, but ran out as fast as possible. It was too embarassing and I didn't want to draw more attention to myself. Today, I had to go back in and get monthly refills. The clerk isn't there, but the pharmacist is. I ask to quietly speak to him in private. I'm already embarassed enough and didn't want to make a huge public issue if something could be worked out.
He denied it happened and said he didn't remember it and didn't even know who I was. Of course, once I said my name, the story changed to he always makes sure he immediately works on my order since I've had trouble with them before losing orders and I get so many items filled every month. He still denied remembering a thing about it. I asked if it were the least bit funny and how horrible I feel walking in there now. If they are brazen enough to laugh at my health's expense when I'm standing right there, what do they say behind my back? What about other customers who have the misfortune of needing to go out of town to specialists and need the refills called in? Who will speak for them? I might not have a million followers here, but the ones who do read regularly are smart, literate and I trust you to tell me who is out of line in this.
There's my story. The comments are open for people to give their thoughts. If I'm wrong and it's perfectly ok what was done, I want to know. Maybe I am just too sensitive? If I'm right, what do I do now? I've asked that the clerk never touch my medical information again, but the damage is already done. I honestly don't feel comfortable going there and now I'm going to have to find a new pharmacy (and I live in a VERY small town) to fill my extensive health needs every month. I'm worried about who else they've told the story to and who all is laughing at me. As I said, this is a small town.
Labels: nightmares, Pennsylvania, Ridgway, Rite Aid
posted by Gretchen at
11:08 AM
2 Comments:
YOur pharmacy is very unprofessional. I thought pharmacists were obliged to treat clients information confidential not to mention showing compassion or a little compassion. Try complaining to the professional association.
Look for another pharmacy. Tell the new pharmacist what kind of standard of care you expect in exchange for your business.
I agree 100% with Tossing Pebbles in the Stream's comment. Another thought on looking for another pharmacy .. is it possible for you to get your medications via mail? I know some medical plans allow for this method of refill.
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