Non Va Formulary Drugs

[MarineDog]

What if any of the requirements for getting a prescription filled that the VA does not carry and that was written by my private Doctor?

Thanks for your help!

[RockyA1911]

The VA has to go out and buy it for you. Just go on contact VA on the VA health care website and file a complaint. I have been getting non-formulary medicine (AciPhex) since last May. At first the clinic nurse gave me a bunch of crap, and then the primary care physician sent in the request for it and it was denied.

I furnished a letter from my private physician stating that I needed the AciPhex and that I tolerate it very well. However I do not tolerate Prilosec, Nexium, or Prevacid (formulary). I faxed it to my VA PC doctor and asked again that it be filled. I then got on the website and filed a complaint that it was taking too long and that I had run out and had to buy it myself.

Two days later there was a knock on my front door and there it was. I have been getting the non-formulary AciPhex since that day with no problems. These medications are for Barrett's Esophagus and has not been service connected yet, still awaiting claim so it costs me $8 co-pay.

Don't buy that stuff just because it is not in the formulary. I think all the reg states is that the VA primary care doctor coordinate with the private care doctor. My doctor just wrote about a two sentence letter to whom it may concern and I faxed it to the clinic. THE VA DOES BUY NON-FORMULARY DRUGS WHEN THAT IS WHAT THE VET HAS BEEN PRESCRIBED AND HAS BEEN TAKING. THEY ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO CHANGE YOU MEDICATION LIKE THAT.

[JON]

I had an outside urologist as well as 2 VA docs ask for a non VA formulary prescription (Sanctura) for me. All sent letters documenting why it was needed and why substitutes don't work. I went through the Spokane VA patient advocate with the documentation. I had to call her each week for several weeks to get an answer. Finally was told "no". I asked for the head pharmacist's decision in writing. He stated since the drug "hadn't been out for 2 years yet and wasn't tested by the VA" that he wouldn't approve. The drug had already been approved by the FDA 2 years prior. Even the drug manufacturer requested a meet with the VA pharmacist. I never heard anything back from any of them, and when I called, the manufacturer states they can't get anyone at VA to talk to them. Even with private insurance, I pay $3.00 per pill (1 twice a day). Good luck.

[Pete53]

Rocky:

I started out with Acidiflex and the VA switched me to Omeprazole which works but not as good and now I have a lot of burping. I sure wish I could get back on Acidiflaex. It costs about 100 bucks amonth if it is on your dime.

[Nerdy Minda]

how do i set a darn avatar on this board? i'd like to put up a picture

[Nerdy Minda]

how do i set a darn avatar on this board? i'd like to put up a picture