Communication or miscommunication? Sometimes, just the attempt at communication (no matter how hard you try) doesn't work. While you think you're being perfectly clear, the person on the receiving end totally misses the point! When these incidents happen and the potential chaos or humor that follows the miscommunication, AND how you react, makes you…you!
These incidents, at times, are mostly harmless, but there are, on occasion, potentially serious results of lack of understanding. I once joked with a friend who had just made an obvious mistake by making a sarcastic comment, "Oh, that was reaaallllll smart." I was being funny, but I could tell that my buddy didn't take it that way initially. The blank look on his face said it all. It only lasted a few seconds when he realized I was just joking with him, and he joined in the laughter. But the opportunity for some damage to our friendship was real for those few seconds. In fact, I consider him to be one of the most intelligent people I've ever met, and I was somewhat horrified that he thought, even for a second, that I really thought he was dumb.
Other times, miscommunication can be very serious. Several months ago, I was picking up a prescription for my wife, and the pharmacy told me it wasn't ready. They had to order it from another location. I asked why I wasn't contacted about the delay as I told the pharmacy when I called, I needed it filled today. They apologized about the miscommunication and gave me the location of the pharmacy where the medication was in stock so I could pick it up there. It was a miscommunication that cost a serious inconvenience and delay. Fortunately it was not a serious problem. But it could have been.
So, what was your last miscommunication about? Who was with you? Was it funny or serious? Did it get resolved? Whatever, whoever, or whenever it happened… it made you… you!
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's pharmacy story really hits home for so many people. Healthcare communication becomes even more critical as we age, especially when dealing with Medicare coverage and prescription benefits. One question I hear all the time is "What happens if my Medicare Part D plan doesn't cover my medication at my usual pharmacy?" The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services requires all Medicare Part D plans to have pharmacy networks, but not every pharmacy carries every medication.
Here's what you can do to avoid David's situation: When you get a new prescription, ask your doctor's office to check with your Medicare Part D plan first to confirm coverage and find in-network pharmacies that stock the medication. You can also call your plan directly or use Medicare.gov's plan finder tool to locate participating pharmacies near you. Most Part D plans also offer mail-order options for maintenance medications, which can save you trips and reduce miscommunication.
Clear communication with your healthcare team becomes more important than ever during retirement. A little preparation with your Medicare coverage details can prevent those stressful pharmacy moments.