There’s No Need To Behave Like An Animal About It
IMPOSSIBLE DEMANDS, PHARMACY, USA, VET | HEALTHY | MARCH 19, 2020
(I work as a receptionist for a veterinary hospital. Earlier today, I gave a prescription to a client for a drug that is classified as Schedule II, which means it is considered as having high potential for abuse, so our facility is not licensed to carry it on-site. It can only be picked up from a human pharmacy. Thus, we write prescriptions instead of filling them ourselves at our on-site pharmacy. My first interaction with the client ends like this
Client: “So… what do I do with this?” *holds up prescription*
Me: “You take it to a pharmacy, just as you would with a prescription from your doctor. I would recommend calling around to see which places have it first before going anywhere because not all pharmacies can or do carry it.”
Client: “Can you call the pharmacies for me?” *stares expectantly*
Me: “I’m sorry, but I can’t. There are dozens of pharmacies in the area, and I have no idea which places have this drug. And unfortunately, I have other clients waiting so I’m not able to set aside that kind of time.”
(She’s not happy with my answer, but she takes the prescription and leaves. Maybe an hour later, I get a call from her.)
Client: “So, can I use my insurance card to pick up the medication?”
Me: “I’m sorry, but I don’t believe that’s legal.”
Client: “But I’m getting the medication from a human pharmacy. Why can’t I use my insurance?”
Me: “Because the medication is for your dog, and the prescription is filled out to reflect that. The pharmacy will be aware it is for a dog, and your insurance only covers you. If you have pet insurance, that may or may not help cover it, but that depends on your plan.”
Client: “Well, I should be able to use it. It’s a pharmacy, not a vet. Why can’t I use it?”
Me: “I’m very sorry, but I’m not sure what else I can do for you. If you have further questions, I can ask the vet to speak with you.”
Client: “No. Never mind!” *hangs up*