My dad is in a rehab center after his stroke. He had a trach put in, and recently we (the family) started noticing a bad odor when he coughs, accompanied with blood in his sputum. After pointing this out to a nurse, a test was done of his sputum and two bacteria were found. My father was then put on antibiotics.
Two days later, his doctor (who has seen him all of two times in the past three months) comes in and tells us that according to his professional opinion, dad does NOT have an infection, and there is no reason for him to be on the antibiotics that HE perscribed. He further went on to inform us that it is actually dangerous for dad to be on antibiotics, but that he put him on them because that was the family's wish. It never was - we simply wanted to know whether he had an infection.
Today we found out we were being charged over $ 1500 for the drugs that we asked for (never did). Insurance does not cover this. Is this legal? What can we do? We certainly can't afford it.
Bandmom
First of all, you need to get another doctor to see your father. This doctor is dangerous to his health! A person who is on a trach needs to be evaluated more frequently than twice in three months. You also need a second opinion. Request copies of all his medical records. (They can't deny this!) You also need to get an itemized bill. If he is on Medicare or Medicaid, you need to contact them; sounds like he is commiting fraud. You also need to consult with a lawyer; most will talk to you on a initial consultation at no charge. I also know of no antibiotic that costs that much for a two day course! If your father is running a fever and has a bacterial infection, he does need antibiotics.
Calee
This is a very complicated situation. You need to find the exact
bacteria that was found. If you are able to make friends with
a nurse or attendant, they could discretely help you out.
You do have the right to your Dad's medical records.
For the future, you should notify the rehab that your Dad is Not
to be given any medications without first checking with his
insurance or with your family.
I can see where you cannot afford a lawyer, but you might be able
to find one who works on a contingency. You need one.
Also check to see if your rehab has a patient advocacy.
I totally agree with Bandmom. Good luck.
sela
Medical treatment errors are one of the top ten reasons for death.
Errors in medical treatment can take place at various stages of treatment.
More information with prevention for this is available at http://errors.in/medicaltreatment.html
Orignal From: Doctor perscribed antibiotics he feels are not necessary before seeing patient. Is this medical malpractice?
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