09/09/2022, Beverly Hills // PRODIGY: Feature Film //
Health care is one of the most important aspects of life, but the system in the United States is far from perfect. Above 131 million people in the US take at least one prescription drug, including 66% of adults. The leading drug classes for prescription drugs in the US are antihypertensives (high blood pressure), pain relievers, and mental health drugs. Many Americans take life-saving drugs, but managing them can be complicated.
A complex subject
Multiple physicians are often involved in prescribing, monitoring, and adjusting medications. There are also various pharmacies that patients can use. This can lead to delays, misunderstandings and errors. Although medical offices do their best to keep systems up to date, complications can still arise when patients change insurers or relocate.
Common problems are:
Patients who forget to refill prescriptions
This can happen for a variety of reasons. Life gets hectic and it’s easy to forget to run a pharmacy. Some patients may not be able to afford their co-payment, so they ration their pills until they can raise the money. This can be particularly dangerous for people with chronic illnesses.
Prescribing changes that result in adverse drug reactions
Drug interactions are a serious problem. When patients see multiple doctors, there is a risk that one will prescribe a drug that will negate the effect of another. Patients may also forget to mention over-the-counter medications or dietary supplements, which can lead to interactions.
Misunderstandings between doctors, patients and pharmacists
This is a common problem that can have serious consequences. Doctors can prescribe the wrong medication or dosage. They may also fail to communicate significant changes to patients. Pharmacists can fill out prescriptions incorrectly or dispense the wrong medication. Patients may forget to ask important questions or understand instructions and feel…
