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Pharmacy Discounts

Pediatric Associates • Jul 17, 2016

We have had several families stop taking their medications lately due to cost.   Some medicines are just very new and expensive.  Some are not new but the manufacturers have no competition to keep prices down.  Did you know, for example, you can get your kindergartener's chewable fluoride tablets for $3 a month instead of a $30 co-pay?


The first step in managing this is to ask us about alternatives.   The vast majority of our prescriptions are written so the pharmacist may substitute a less expensive but equivalent option.  Sometimes we can change your child's prescription to another medication with similar effectiveness but perhaps different side effects that may not matter for your situation (for example, two asthma inhalers work the same but the cheaper one can make young children overactive).


Drug makers often offer direct discounts on their websites or through coupons.  These often have conditions, however, so read the fine print.  Some online resources can help you find the best price at local pharmacies, such as GoodRx http://www.goodrx.com  Health insurance companies are working on similar online resources but nothing that works well in Springfield yet.


Some pharmacies have their own discount programs.  In Springfield, a popular one is  Walmart http://www.walmart.com (search under Health, Beauty and Pharmacy for $4 Prescriptions).  Another option is to talk with your pharmacist directly; they may know of some other options to modify your prescriptions.


Charities such as Children's Miracle Network are one-time last resort options that we can help you with but the application process takes some time.


We want your child to get the medication he or she needs.  Let us know if we can help in any way.

By Pediatric Associates of Springfield 20 Mar, 2024
What is Bedwetting? Bedwetting is a common issue for many children. In fact, there are about 5 million children in the U.S. who wet the bed past the recommended age. Many children are toilet trained between the ages of 2-4, but some children develop and train at their own rate. If your child has accidents at night, they are not alone. And as a parent, neither are you. Effects of Bedwetting Bedwetting can cause strain on children and parents, and may worsen social anxiety, depression, and isolation from peers. If your child experiences bladder control problems after age five and it is bothersome to them and your family, it may be worth reaching out to the child’s pediatrician to seek help. Types of Bedwetting There are two types of bedwetting: #1) Primary bedwetting is the focus of this article and describes children who never achieved dry nights since potty training (typically these children have no accidents during the daytime). #2) Secondary bedwetting is when a child achieved consistent dry nights for at least 6 months but has started bedwetting again. This can be related to many factors, including urination dysfunction, constipation, or neurologic dysfunction. This type of bedwetting is an urgent concern so please call your PCP promptly. Common reasons for bedwetting Communication between the brain and bladder . If the brain is sensing the bladder is filling up and sends a message to empty, bedwetting will happen. On the contrary, if the brain does not recognize that the bladder is filling, your child may not wake up to use the restroom, and bedwetting will happen. Stress or trauma . Sometimes when children experience stress or traumatic events, such as an illness or life stressor, they can have bouts of bedwetting. This can occur even if the child was previously dry at night. Medical concerns . Rarely, some children begin to wet the bed because of a medical problem. Managing bedwetting Keep the following tips in mind: Do not blame your child . It is not your child’s fault. Offer support, not punishment, for wet nights. Be honest with your child about what is going on . Let your child know it is not their fault, and that most children outgrow bedwetting. Protect the bed . A plastic cover under the sheets protects the mattress. Let your child help . Encourage your child to help change the wet sheets and covers. This can teach responsibility, as well as keep your child from feeling embarrassed if the rest of the family knows . Important note : if you child views this as a punishment, it is not recommended. Bedwetting Treatment The initial treatment for bedwetting includes behavioral and lifestyle changes. These may include, but are not limited to: limiting fluid intake after a certain time at night eliminating bladder irritants such as carbonation or artificial colors constipation management creating a schedule for bathroom use You can reach out to your child’s pediatrician for guidance on what changes may work best. If bedwetting does not stop after behavioral changes, there are additional medical treatments that may be warranted. Please discuss these options with your child’s pediatrician if other methods have not been effective. For further details, you can read more about bedwetting here and here Clayton Brinkley MS 3 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Campus
By Pediatric Associates of Springfield 15 Dec, 2023
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that is due to insulin resistance, the body’s hormone that regulates sugar, which leads to increased sugar levels in the body known as hyperglycemia. There are two common types of diabetes mellitus:  Type I is an autoimmune form that leads to destruction of cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Children with type I are typically born predisposed to the disease and are often diagnosed early in life.  Type II is the acquired form of diabetes that is due to insulin resistance in the body. Insulin is produced in pancreas normally, but constant exposure of insulin in the body due to persistent high sugar levels leads to resistance. Type II diabetes (T2DM) is mostly associated with obesity. While T2DM is more commonly diagnosed in adults, increasing rates of obesity in children has led to more cases of T2DM in children, typically adolescents. While T2DM in children develops slowly, there are some signs of hyperglycemia:  Increased thirst and/or hunger  Frequent urination  Fatigue  Darkened areas of skin, commonly around neck, armpit, or groin  Frequent infections  Blurry vision It is recommended to screen your child for diabetes if they have started puberty, or at least 10 years old, and are overweight or obese. Consider screening your child for diabetes if they have these risk factors: o Family history of diabetes o Overweight o Poor diet o Inactivity o Adolescent girl o Black, Hispanic, American Indian and Asian American ethnicity o Low birth weight or preterm birth o Maternal gestational diabetes Prevention Instilling healthy lifestyle habits in your children is the best way to prevent T2DM. Encourage the household to eat healthy foods and get more physical activity. Healthy foods include whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Cut down on processed foods, sugary drinks, and fatty foods. References Tillotson CV, Bowden SA, Shah M, et al. Pediatric Type 2 Diabetes. [Updated 2023 Nov 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Sai Supriya Vuda MS3 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Clinical Campus
By Pediatric Associates of Springfield 24 Oct, 2023
Have you ever wondered why your provider didn’t order an x-ray? Like many medical tests, there are benefits and risks to imaging studies. Medical imaging is useful for diagnosing many medical problems and can help determine the treatment for some patients. Certain forms of imaging such as X-rays and CT scans contain ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation can damage the DNA in our cells, which may increase the risk of developing cancer. The harmful effects from radiation are seen with large doses and lots of doses given in a short amount of time. Children are more sensitive to radiation and have a longer life expectancy, so it’s especially important to reduce their radiation exposure. While medical imaging may sound dangerous, it’s important to consider that we are all exposed to low levels of radiation every day. This “background radiation” comes from rocks, soil, building materials, and space. Some forms of medical imaging use higher amounts of radiation than others. For example, a single chest x-ray is comparable to 1 day of background radiation, while a CT scan of the abdomen is equivalent to 20 months of background radiation. Healthcare providers are aware of these risks, which is why they try to order imaging only when medically necessary. It is recommended to use the lowest amount of radiation possible that still provides a good quality image. Techniques are used to lower radiation doses for pediatric patients. Additionally, radiation is focused only on the area of the body that needs imaged rather than the entire body. What you can do to reduce radiation risk for your child: Keep a record of your child’s imaging studies and share them with your healthcare team. This can help reduce the need to repeat imaging if you need to switch providers. Ask your healthcare provider or imaging facility if the radiation dose is lowered for pediatric patients. Ask your provider if it is possible to use imaging methods that do not require radiation, such as MRI and ultrasound. More information: FDA CDC Image Gently Sally Heil MS3 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Campus
By Pediatric Associates of Springfield 23 Aug, 2023
Preventing Postpartum Maternal Mortality in Missouri: A Guide for Moms While becoming a new parent is a joyous time, it is also important to consider the postpartum period is a vulnerable time for mothers. Postpartum maternal mortality, though rare, is a serious concern. In Missouri, where we rank 44/50 worst in maternal mortality, understanding the signs, symptoms, and taking preventive measures us essential in helping to ensure a healthy postpartum experience. This article hopes to discuss how moms can play an active role in preventing postpartum maternal mortality by recognizing signs and symptoms early. Importance of Postpartum Maternal Health: The postpartum period, spanning the first few weeks after childbirth, is a critical time for a mother's physical and emotional well-being. Complications can arise during this time, so being vigilant about signs and symptoms is crucial. Maternal mortality is defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 365 days of delivery, and addressing this issue requires awareness and action.
 Recognizing Signs and Symptoms: Moms should be attentive to any unusual physical or emotional changes during the postpartum period. Some common signs and symptoms that may indicate a potential issue include: Excessive bleeding: If bleeding is heavy and doesn't seem to be slowing down, it could be a sign of postpartum hemorrhage, which requires immediate medical attention. Severe headache, vision changes, and high blood pressure: These could be symptoms of preeclampsia, a serious condition that can occur after childbirth. Shortness of breath, chest pain, or palpitations: These may indicate blood clots or heart-related problems. Intense mood swings, extreme sadness, or thoughts of self-harm: These could be signs of postpartum depression or anxiety, which should be addressed promptly. Preventive Measures: Moms can take several steps to prevent postpartum maternal mortality: Attend postpartum check-ups: Regular visits to healthcare professionals can help identify and address any potential health issues early. Educate yourself: Learn about common postpartum complications, their signs, and the steps to take in case of emergencies. Reach out for support: Don't hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or support groups. Emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. Remember mental health is just as important as physical health: post-partum patients with substance use history or intimate partner violence are at increased risk of overdose death. Additionally, suicide risk is highest between 43 days to one year postpartum with 92% of cases involve white women, aged 20-29 years, living in metropolitan counties. Follow healthcare provider's advice: If you're given medications or instructions for recovery, follow them diligently. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Optimizing your BMI with proper nutrition, hydration, and gentle exercise can reduce the risk of complications. Seatbelt safety: Always wear seatbelts correctly, with the lap belt positioned low over the hips and the shoulder belt crossing the chest between the breasts. Adjust the seat and steering wheel for comfort and to ensure a safe distance from the airbag. Preventing postpartum maternal mortality requires a collaborative effort between healthcare professionals, families, and mothers themselves. By being aware of the signs and symptoms of potential complications and taking proactive steps, moms in Missouri can help ensure their own well-being during the postpartum period. Remember, seeking prompt medical attention and fostering an open dialogue about any concerns are crucial elements in safeguarding maternal health after childbirth. 2018-2020 Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review Rebecka Ernst MS3 University of Missouri College of Medicine Springfield Clinical Campus
By Pediatric Associates of Springfield 15 Aug, 2023
What is Gastroschisis? "Gastroschisis" is a congenital condition where the baby's bowels are often outside the body, mainly to the right of the belly button. Why does this happen? This condition is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. What do you need to know about your pregnancy? Your baby will likely be smaller than average. Expect your baby to arrive at 37 to 38 weeks, earlier than the expected 40 weeks. Understand that you could have done nothing to prevent this according to current scientific guidelines. Most deliveries occur vaginally. What should I expect after my baby is born? This is a significant question, with the answer varying based on how much of the baby's intestine is outside the body and the overall gut condition – simple or complex. Fortunately, 75% of American cases are simple. Whether simple or complex: After delivery, the focus will be on keeping the bowels clean and moist by covering the exposed area. Hydration and nutrients will be given via a needle inserted in the hand, foot, or scalp. Antibiotics will be administered through the same line to prevent infection. A tube will be inserted through the baby's nose to release air from the stomach, reducing inflammation and distension, making it easier to reposition the intestines. A breathing tube might also be necessary to assist with respiration. In complex cases, surgery might be delayed to address inflammation or treat the bowel before placing it back inside the baby. This leads to better outcomes. For simple cases, the bowel will either be kept clean, hydrated, and wrapped, allowing it to naturally return to the abdomen, or it will be surgically reinserted and the abdominal opening closed. Research shows that both approaches have similar lengths of stay and progress results. Depending on the case complexity, hospital stay duration varies from weeks to months. What's the Long-Term Outlook? While there might be some gastrointestinal challenges or developmental considerations, many children with Gastroschisis go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Regular medical check-ups will help monitor your child's progress and address any issues that may arise. Follow-Up Care : After leaving the hospital, consistent follow-up care is crucial. Regular appointments with the medical team will ensure that your baby's growth, development, and overall health are carefully monitored. Any concerns or questions can be addressed during these visits, and adjustments to the care plan can be made as needed. Parental Support : Dealing with Gastroschisis can be emotionally overwhelming. Remember that you're not alone. Seek support groups or counseling services to connect you with other parents who have gone through similar experiences. These networks can provide valuable emotional support and share practical insights to smooth your journey. Don't hesitate to contact your surgical team if your baby displays feeding intolerance (vomiting) or any signs of infection at the surgery site (redness, swelling, drainage). Your active involvement and communication are crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes for your child's health and well-being. CDC https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/gastroschisis.html#:~:text=The%20exact%20causes%20of%20gastroschisis,certain%20medicines%20used%20during%20pregnancy. NIH https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557894/ Gastroschisis Foundation https://averysangels.org/  Alexander Alvarado MS4 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Clinical Campus Ashlynn Harmon RN Gastroschisis parent
By Pediatric Associates of Springfield 18 Jul, 2023
Tampon Safety: Preventing Toxic Shock Did you ever think that the proper use of tampons could be a matter of life or death? Well, surprisingly, it can be! It can be easy for people to forget to change out their tampons regularly, especially when they first start getting their period. However, if a tampon is left unchanged for too long, bacteria can use it as a home to grow and release toxins which can make a person very sick. Initial signs of toxic shock syndrome could be diarrhea, throwing up, fever, achy muscles, sore throat, light-headedness, confusion, or a combination of these symptoms. Over a few days, these symptoms can progress to life-threatening organ damage which requires hospitalization. This is why it is important to teach young people about proper tampon safety and methods to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome. Below are some ways to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome from happening: Only use tampons when on your period Change out tampons every 4 to 8 hours Use electronic devices such as a smartphone or smartwatch to set reminders to change out tampons Wash your hands well before inserting a tampon Use pads (sanitary napkins) instead of tampons overnight Consider the use of a silicone menstrual cup or period panties With the busy lives that people live, it can be easy to forget proper tampon hygiene. With a few of these steps, the risk of toxic shock can be greatly reduced. Learn more about tampon safety and toxic shock syndrome at the links below: American Academy of Pediatrics Consumer Safety FDA Cleveland Clinic Better Health Agency If you have any further questions, you can contact us at 417-882-1600 Evan Reeves MS3 University of Missouri College of Medicine Springfield Campus
By Pediatric Associates 07 Feb, 2023
Have you ever felt like your legs were tingling or itching, and you just couldn't stop moving them? This could possibly be due to a condition called Restless Leg Syndrome(RLS). RLS affects the nervous system, causing an irresistible urge to move the legs. This can happen to children as well as adults, and it can make it difficult for them to fall asleep and stay asleep. RLS can also cause feelings of discomfort, such as tingling, crawling, or aching sensations in the legs. The exact cause of RLS is not well understood, but it is thought to be related to a problem with the way the brain sends signals to the legs. Some children may develop RLS as a result of a medical condition, such as iron deficiency or diabetes. However, in most cases, the cause is unknown. Symptoms of RLS in children can include: ⦁ An irresistible urge to move the legs, especially when sitting or lying down ⦁ Tingling, crawling, or aching sensations in the legs ⦁ Symptoms that are worse at night ⦁ Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep ⦁ Daytime fatigue or irritability If your child is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to talk to their doctor. A proper diagnosis of RLS requires a physical examination and a detailed description of your child's symptoms. Treatment for RLS in children typically includes lifestyle changes and medications. The child’s provider can also prescribe medications that may help and iron supplements if the child has low iron levels. If your child has RLS, there are lifestyle changes that you can do to help: ⦁ Regular exercise. Encourage your child to exercise during the day. Exercise can help make the legs feel better when your child is trying to sleep at night. ⦁ Stretching. Have your child stretch their legs before bed. Stretching can help relax the muscles and make it easier to fall asleep. ⦁ Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. A consistent routine before bed can help to fall asleep faster. ⦁ Avoiding stimulants, such as caffeine. Stimulating substances can make it harder to fall asleep. ⦁ Have your child take a warm bath before bed. The warm water can help relax the legs and make it easier to fall asleep. It's also important to keep in mind that RLS can affect a child's daily life and school performance. They may find it hard to concentrate or stay still in class, which can have an impact on their academic performance. It is important to work with the school to make accommodations as needed. If your child is experiencing symptoms of RLS, talk to their doctor and work together to come up with a plan. You can learn more about RLS through this link from the Cleveland Clinic. Kevin Luton MS3 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Clinical Campus
By Pediatric Associates 07 Feb, 2023
Seizure disorder and epilepsy are conditions that affect brain activity. Seizures are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movement, and sensation. Seizure disorder and epilepsy can happen to anyone, but they are more common in children. Seizures can happen for many different reasons. Some children are born with a seizure disorder or develop it at a young age, while others may have a seizure because of a brain injury or infection. Seizures may be associated with other conditions and sometimes run in families. In some cases, the cause of seizures is unknown. Epilepsy is a type of seizure disorder that is characterized by recurring seizures. Seizures that happen more than once are considered epilepsy. In children, epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders. There are many different types of seizures, and each type can have different symptoms. Some common symptoms of seizures include: • Loss of consciousness • Jerking or twitching of the muscles • Staring spells • Confusion or disorientation • Unusual behavior • Sudden fear or feelings of déjà vu If you suspect that your child may have a seizure disorder or epilepsy, it is important to seek medical help. A doctor will be able to diagnose the condition and recommend treatment options. Treatment for seizure disorder and epilepsy typically includes medication, which is used to control seizures and prevent them from happening. The most common medications used to treat epilepsy are called antiepileptic drugs. These drugs work by changing the way electrical signals move through the brain to make seizures less frequent. In addition to medication, there are other ways to help control seizures. For example, a special diet called the ketogenic diet has been shown to be effective in controlling seizures in some children. Surgery may also be an option for some children with epilepsy. It's important to remember that seizure disorder and epilepsy can be managed. With the right treatment, children with these conditions can lead normal and healthy lives. If your child has been diagnosed with seizure disorder or epilepsy, it's important to work closely with their healthcare team to manage the condition. This may include regular check-ups and adjustments to treatment as needed. It is also important to educate yourself and your child about the condition, its triggers and warning signs, and how to respond in case of a seizure. It is also important to be aware of the possible impact that seizures can have on the child's academic and social life, you can work with the school to make accommodations if needed. If your child is experiencing seizure or seizure-like symptoms, you can talk to their doctor and work together to come up with a treatment plan. You can learn more about seizure and epilepsy through this link from the Cleveland Clinic. Kevin Luton MS3 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Clinical Campus
By Pediatric Associates 28 Oct, 2022
RSV Bronchiolitis: When is it an Emergency? RSV bronchiolitis can seem very scary as it is making headlines all over social media. Here are some tips to help treat this illness at home and decide if a trip to the urgent care or emergency department is necessary. What is RSV? RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) is one of many viruses that causes respiratory illness. In some kids, usually <2 years of age, RSV can cause illness more severe than the common cold. Similar to the common cold, it can cause a fever (>100.4 F), cough, congestion, runny nose, and poor feeding. However, RSV can also affect the lower airways causing wheezing and increased work of breathing (belly breathing or using the muscles between the ribs and/or the lower neck). These episodes of labored breathing are often broken up by coughing spells and vomiting swallowed mucus that help clear the airway temporarily. These are followed by an brief period of relief that allow for feedings and rest. Home pulse oximeters can be inaccurate in infants but please call if you're concerned. What can I do at home? Like any bad cold, treating the symptoms of RSV to make your child more comfortable is the first thing to do. Nasal saline with suctioning: Squirting nasal saline in the nose and suctioning with a NoseFrida or a blue bulb will allow for easier breathing and feeding. Closing one nostril while you are suctioning the other will allow for better suction. Humidity: Humidity will help thin and break up mucus. Sitting in the bathroom with your baby while running a hot steamy shower or a cool mist-humidifier in the room can help. Fluids and frequent feedings: Feedings can be difficult as it can be hard for your baby to breath and handle mucus while eating. Milk, their main source of fluid, can also thicken mucus making it harder for your baby to breathe. Smaller, more frequent feedings may be needed during times of heavy mucus. Supplementing with rehydration fluids (Pedialyte) during this illness will help keep your baby hydrated if breast milk or formula lead to excessive mucus. Fever Reducer Medicine: When your baby has a fever, they will increase how fast and hard they breathe. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (if over 6 months) will help make them more comfortable. When do babies need an urgent care evaluation for RSV? Dehydration (less than 3-4 wet diapers in a 24-hour period). This may be treated with IV fluids or hospital admission. Labored breathing that continues without relief for hours. This may be treated with deep suctioning, oxygen or hospital admission. This link from the AAP has more information. If you are uncertain or have any questions, call us at (417) 882-1600. Justin Chu MS3 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield campus
By Pediatric Associates of Springfield 20 Jul, 2022
Constipation is common in children. Knowing the causes, signs, and prevention strategies can help you and your child keep bowel healthy habits at home. What is constipation? - Fewer than normal number of bowel movements (also called poops or stools) a week. It’s important to note that how often your child usually stools will be different from what’s normal for another child. - Hard, dry, or painful to pass bowel movements - Other signs include stomachaches, soiling underwear, and making faces or clenching their bottom while passing stool What causes constipation? - Withholding or holding back stool - Illness - Diet - Life stressors The most common cause of constipation in children is withholding stool. This can happen when children are potty trained too early, as children may withhold stool to gain control in the situation. Withholding stool can make the stool dryer and harder to pass which can then cause pain with bowel movements. Now the child associates pain with bowel movements which can worsen the issue. This is why it is best not to push children into toilet training and to treat constipation when symptoms first arise. Older children may withhold stool whenever they are away from home or because they don’t want to stop what they’re doing to go to the bathroom. How can I help my child develop good bowel habits? - Create a toilet routine with your child. Pick a regular daily time when you encourage your child to sit on the toilet. - Put something beneath your child’s feet that they can press on. This makes it easier for them to push out stool. - Ensure your child is drinking enough fluid and eating fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. These foods help soften the stool so that it’s easier to pass. - Encourage play and activity. When do I call my child’s doctor? Call or schedule a visit with your child’s doctor if your child is constipated for more than 2 weeks or is also having a fever, pain with their bowel movements, blood in their stool, swelling of their belly, appetite change, or weight loss. learn more about the signs, causes, and treatment of constipation. Jihane (Jiji) Oufattole MS3 University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Campus
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