> doctors prescribing named brand, and you not be allowed to switch back to generic without another $100+ appointment
I'm not sure this is that common, unless you have an adversarial relationship with your doctor. It's actually the opposite: in most states the Dr. must write DAW-dispense as written or 'name brand only' to get the expensive brand. Otherwise, the pharmacist can and will substitute a generic if available.
I've always found docs to be very willing to work with you on budget issues. If there's a similar med that is available in generic where their original recommendation isn't, they're happy to switch.
In France, the pharmacist is legally obliged to offer the cheaper generic. If the doctor wants the primary brand specifically, he has to write "non-substitutable" on the prescription and a shorthand mention of the reason.
I'm not sure this is that common, unless you have an adversarial relationship with your doctor. It's actually the opposite: in most states the Dr. must write DAW-dispense as written or 'name brand only' to get the expensive brand. Otherwise, the pharmacist can and will substitute a generic if available.
I've always found docs to be very willing to work with you on budget issues. If there's a similar med that is available in generic where their original recommendation isn't, they're happy to switch.