Dilantin blood checks/ doctor visits too expensive for me

I've been taking Dilantin for 15 years. I would like to have my blood checked every couple of months or so but costs have prohitited me from doing so.

While I do need a doctor from time to time, as a rule, I simply need to check my blood levels. Is there anybody out there who can direct me toward somebody or somewhere that would allow me to get my levels checked without seeing a doctor each time?

I'm very willing to pay as much as I can.....often though I simply cannot afford the costs of getting this care.

Thanks to all.

Thanks for your replies. I actually went to Canada for several years to get blood tests and Dilantin refills. The costs was a small fraction of what it costs in America. I wish I still lived near Canada.

I then spent 8 years in Japan. The Japanese system is roughly equal to the Canadian system. I received great care at a small cost.

America.....this system is bad. If you have insurance and money, it's not bad. If you are the average person on the street, this system is lacking.

By the way, I've asked doctors in the past for a standing order but none would do it. I'll try again.

Jennifer, thanks for your post. I had limited luck but today had some good news.

At first, the doctor wasn't interested in a standing order. Then, the doctor didn't call me to tell me my results. His nurse said that I would have to make an appointment. She added that if the levels had been low or high, he would have called.

I wrote the doctor a letter and told him I MUST personally know the level. I was diplomatic but strong. He called me today and told me the level. It was right on!

I went to tell him I would like to have my blood checked from time to time without having to see him. He reluctantly agreed.

Thanks for mentioning the thread for free or low cost meds. Your help is very much appreciated.