Conditions: Multiple Drug Allergies

Wears: Interchangeable Bracelet and Sports Silicone Bracelet

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“When no one else knew what to do, MedicAlert did.”

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A Member’s Story of Struggle, Advocacy, and Relief

In recent weeks, my health journey took a dramatic and painful turn. What began as an adverse drug reaction (ADR) quickly spiralled into a distressing and isolating experience, one that, sadly, I now realise many others with complex health needs may endure too.

I live with Barrett’s oesophagus and a rare genetic condition that affects the way my body metabolises medications. When my regular medication began causing unbearable chest, stomach, and bowel pain, I knew I needed help. But getting that help was anything but simple.

Trying to contact my GP through a 500-character eConsult felt absurd when I was struggling to breathe and in constant pain. I was advised to wait a week - a week! - until my pharmacogeneticist at St George’s Hospital might be reachable. Desperate, I bought a lower-dose version of my usual medication over the counter, just to manage the symptoms. It helped, but only slightly.

Eventually, through my past contacts from working with the CQC, I reached the Practice Manager and pleaded for support. Only then was my case passed to a pharmacology consultant at St George’s. After further delays, they recommended a new medication, though even that came in at half my normal dosage. The pain, while slightly reduced, persisted.

Despite multiple eConsults, my GP refused to act without explicit instructions from the consultant. I found myself caught in a vicious loop of unanswered emails, unreturned calls to the hospital pharmacy, and suggestions to go to A&E or call 111, neither of which could safely navigate my rare genetic medication needs. They simply didn’t know what to do.

So, I did what so many others with rare or complex conditions must do: I became my own advocate. I searched the Electronic Medicines Compendium myself. I reviewed alternative drugs. I took control - because I had to.

But through it all, one thing stood out: MedicAlert understood. You didn’t dismiss my concerns or refer me in circles. You knew that the complexity of my condition needed expertise, not guesswork. And even though things are still ongoing, it’s a huge comfort to know someone is truly working on it behind the scenes.

To anyone who’s ever felt unheard or trapped in the system, you are not alone. MedicAlert gets it. And that kind of support, when no one else is listening, is priceless.