If you ever receive a prescription from a doctor, always take a clear photo of it with your smartphone before handing it over to anyone. For extra security, email the photo to yourself. This simple habit gives you a record of what was prescribed and can be crucial evidence if anything goes wrong.
My Story
On September 28, 2016, I went to OrthoNY after being released from a Virginia hospital with a broken knee. I brought my hospital records (on DVD), but OrthoNY claimed the discs only contained info about my traumatic brain injury, not my knee. They took my ID and insurance card, assuring me they could pull the records electronically.
When I finally saw Dr. Adam G. Suslak, he told me, “Good news! You never broke your knee. You can take off the knee stabilizer, put weight on your leg, and start physical therapy.” Relieved, I followed his advice.
At the OrthoNY Physical Therapy office, I handed over my prescription and insurance info. The staff noticed the prescription was written for “John Cooper” instead of my name, Glen Cooper. I convinced them to correct it, since I’d just received it from Dr. Suslak.
That afternoon, I removed the knee brace as instructed. The pain was so severe I collapsed and passed out. The next day, still in agony, I had to cancel my physical therapy appointment.
Later, I realized I’d been misdiagnosed. When I tried to pursue a malpractice case, lawyers told me I had no case without concrete evidence of the misdiagnosis—like the original, incorrect prescription.
I ended up on disability. My knee is still unbendable, and I’ve lost trust in the medical system. On another occasion, a doctor prescribed a medication I’d listed as an allergy on their intake forms. I took it, had a severe reaction, and realized how easily mistakes can happen.
Lessons Learned
Don’t trust—verify. Always double-check what you’re prescribed.
Never let anyone alter a prescription after it’s written. If there’s a mistake, get a new one.
Photograph every prescription. Keep a digital record in case you ever need proof.
Research every medication before taking it. Don’t assume your doctor or pharmacist caught every detail.
I share this so others can avoid the pain, frustration, and loss of trust I’ve experienced. Protect yourself—be your own advocate.