“We understand that the consequences of the disaster may have caused unforeseen concerns for residents. We ask residents to assess whether the medicines that must be kept refrigerated are still suitable for use and to consult specialists about this. If necessary, they can be purchased again by obtaining a prescription remotely, and there is also the possibility to recover the money spent,” says Minister of Health Linas Kukuraitis.
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Specialists point out that medicines that must be kept refrigerated may lose their effectiveness or become unsafe if exposed to improper temperatures. If, during a power outage, the required storage temperature for the medicines was not / is not ensured, such medicines must not be used and must be taken to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
If necessary medicines are lost, residents should contact their family doctor or treating specialist to get a prescription. When issuing a repeat prescription, doctors must mark it with the note “Specialist’s decision.” With such a prescription – depending on the individual situation – the state will cover part or all of the cost of the medicines. Those who have to pay again the remaining part or the full price of the medicine are advised to keep payment receipts and submit them to the Energy Distribution Operator (ESO) when applying for compensation through civil proceedings. However, it is noted that compensation applies only to medicines whose instructions specify that they must be kept cold.
Specialists also remind to try to open the refrigerator door as rarely as possible during a power outage so that the required temperature remains inside as long as possible, and if there is the slightest doubt about the safety of the medicine – to consult a pharmacist or doctor.
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