By George Anderson
The new Medicare prescription plan has created confusion and longer waiting times at pharmacy counters in Corpus Christi, Texas, reports KRIS-TV.
Pharmacy workers are finding that they need to spend more time on the phone and the computer to answer questions and sort through early implementation issues.
"What's happening is that this is creating wait time...for the customer," said H-E-B pharmacist Balde Garcia.
H-E-B has posted a sign alerting customers that problems may arise as the new program gets underway but that medication will always be available.
One of the immediate issues being faced, said Ms. Garcia, is that "co-pays are coming in at much higher rate than what they've (Plan D participants) been told so we're working through those right now."
H-E-B has assigned extra people to its pharmacies simply to deal with Plan D questions and issues.
"There have been some trying times but I know we're going to work through them. I see a light at the end of the tunnel. There's things that are happening [on an] everyday basis that's allowing me to better serve my customers...my patients," said Ms. Garcia.
Moderator's Comment: Are the issues described in the KRIS-TV report common in other parts of the country? How are pharmacies dealing with the challenges posed by Plan D? - George Anderson - Moderator