Where do I start?!

Where do I start?

A few weeks ago I called 911 for my elderly uncle because he was having a hard time breathing. When the paramedics took him away they also took all of his medications with them. Hew stayed in two different hospitals first Alta Bates then Herrick Hospital for a few days. Now he is back home. Although he has received some new prescriptions he still needs the meds the paramedics took. Where in the world can I possibly begin to search for his bag of meds? Unfortunately his medi care only allows him to get 6 prescriptions filled per month. This makes it impossible to have them re-prescribed in a timely manner. I have no idea where or how to begin this search for him. Any real suggestions would be deeply appreciated. At least I would like to know if they usually get disposed of in cases like this.

If you want to talk to "real people"who are familiar with Medicare and could listen and help you solve this problem I would suggest that you call your local Area Agency on Aging. These folks are good at listening, problem-solving and at cutting through red tape.

Area Agencies on Aging are one of the best kept secrets around for older Americans and their families--and they would probably know who to call to get your uncle's prescriptions replaced free or at a reduced cost as it may be unlikely that the hospitals would know where they are or get them to you as soon as he would need them.
There is an Area Agency on Aging not far from where you live, since this is a national network. If they don't know the answer to a particular question--they will know the person who can provide the answer.

It is important to know that these organizations are not "selling" any particular product or service so the information you will recieve will be objective.

You can call toll-free 1-800-677-1116 to find how to contact your Area Agency . When you call, ask for the "Information and Assistance" staff person or the person who "helps family caregivers." Then, when you visit wth this person, explain your situation.

Another thing to know is that Area Agencies on Aging have resources and support services that help older Americans with in-home services and also support caregivers. You might find other helpful information for your uncle, for yourself--or for your other older friends and neighbors--by making this call.

If you do contact your local Area Agency on Aging and like the help that they give you, let your local county officials know and your folks in Congress know, too. Area Agencies on Aging don't have big budgets--their funding comes from the Older Americans Act and appropriations have not increased for years! Your voluntary financial contribution of any amount--which is absolutely not required to get the help you need to answer this question--would certainly be appreciated.

I really hope that your uncle's health problems are resolved! He is very lucky to have your care and concern! Best wishes and good luck!