Steven asked
How long does one stay RED FLAGGED. I have not gotten any medications over 8 months--would I still be red flagged? I am having surgery in couple of week ad concerned about getting pain medicine following it. Thanks!
Answer
Could you possibly provide more information in regards to you being flagged? As far as I am aware, there is no specific "red flag" system for any patient in the United States that is permanent mark on your medical history. Most pharmacies currently have the ability to look at ALL of your controlled substance prescriptions in a specific time period, but there is by no means a central flagging system with law enforcement. Many states have controlled substance monitoring programs including Arizona, New York and Tennessee. This programs simply allow access for all health care professionals to monitor patient specific controlled substance history. It's use is not intended to deny legitimate prescriptions that are appropriately prescribed.
Most likely, you might just have a specific note on your patient profile at a pharmacy regarding your controlled substance history. Pharmacists are legally responsible for the medications they dispense, and if they ignore what the DEA calls "red flags", then the pharmacist can be held liable. Anyone with a past history of problems may just be scrutinized to a greater extent than other patients. All pharmacists are keenly aware of suspicious behavior or "red flags" so to say. Certain "red flags" identified by the DEA are:
- Patients receiving multiple controlled substance prescriptions from multiple doctors.
- Patients seeking early refills on controlled substance medications
- Patients with out of state address or presenting prescriptions from out of state doctors
- Patients paying high dollar cash amounts for controlled substances.
Can you describe how you were made aware you were "flagged" and if you have been denied legitimate and appropriate prescriptions?
If you have a legitimate medical need, and have not recently received controlled substance prescriptions from multiple providers, I see no reason you cannot get a future pain medication filled. Worst case, the dispensing pharmacy may just call your prescribing doctor to clarify any prescription.
Please feel free to email us any follow-up questions! We are always more than happy to help and wish you luck in the future!
