Problems with prescriptions

In a nutshell, it is a huge problem. I am unable to read them for myself and I still have to depend on sighted assistance to have them read to me. If there is no one around or if the doctor has not explained them to me, then I am in trouble.

I have a terrific family doctor who tells me what she is doing, that is, what type of prescription she is writing out for me. But I do not always get the same pharmacist who tells me exactly what the prescription is, and what it contains. Maybe there is some type of gadget out there that will help me to read prescriptions; hopefully someone will read this and let me know.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day and inviting you to share my blogs with others. Visit www.nfb.org to learn more.

The problem with prescriptions

Prescriptions are definitely a part of our lives and a great blessing to us all, but when you are blind and are unable to read printed labels on boxes or bottles or read what your doctor or physician is asking you to take to your pharmacist, then here is where the challenge occurs.

At the best of times, the majority of the sighted world is unable to read the handwriting of their physician or doctor so just imagine what it would be like for us as blind persons. Whenever we ask a sighted person to read our prescriptions, we are literally at the mercy of how much time they can devote to reading it accurately to us. It may be time for our medical system to come up with some sort of way to enable us to read our own prescriptions. I can only make suggestions and hope for the best so here goes.

For those with computer access, email the prescriptions to us. This can also help sighted persons as well. Or maybe some sort of telephone system that enables us to hear our prescriptions? Or maybe a call for manufacturers to come up with some sort of device to help us read our prescriptions? Maybe some sort of label reader? Maybe we could use the Pen Friend reader to help us label our prescription boxes and bottles but here again, a sighted person’s time and help is needed to read the contents to us.

I’m Donna J. Jodhan your friendly accessibility advocate wishing you a terrific day and inviting you to go out there and discuss our prescription challenges with others. Visit www.maxiaids.com to learn more about the Pen Friend.