I was subscribed an otic cream that cost over $200 when the pharmacist told me there were similar, slightly less effective drops for $50. I spent 2 hours at the pharmacy calling back to my physician and waiting to try to get the prescription changed. Most don't have that time flexibility to do that.
I think the pharmacist regretted telling me, as it was such a pain to get the prescription changed with my Dr.
Imagine if your car mechanic recommended a fix but had no idea what the parts would cost. And the difference between two perfectly suitable parts could be the equivalent of half of someone’s paycheck.
My doc could certainly use the same site I do to check. Her EMR could certainly check.
My doc will sit there with me as I look up prices and compare cheaper meds. I just wish it was faster to save both our time.
I'm all for generics, but I'd like the government to do its part to protect the health and safety of the citizenry. (And no, I don't believe big pharma is being honest.)
For many ailments there are five or six different drugs suited for the job. Goodrx helps me pick the most affordable.
Interesting. I wonder if this is because you're an ER doc and work in a hospital? Every doctor I know who sees patients in an office has to deal with sales reps.