Two new studies highlight the steps-some of them too risky-that patients are taking to protect their pockets from totally emptying.

One study from the Center for Studying Health System Change reports that one in seven children and working-age Americans went without a prescription drug in 2007 because of cost concerns. That number was one in 10 in the year 2003. The same study found that one in four working-age adults (19-64) with a chronic condition reported unmet prescription drug needs in 2007. And those with low incomes or uninsured, points out the report, were even more vulnerable.

The second study, a newly released Harris Poll , reports that as of December 2008, 81% of adults surveyed would choose a generic drug over a brand name drug. That percentage was 68% in October 2006. Other Harris Poll findings show that consumers have been turning to discount stores such as Wal-Mart and online companies to purchase their drugs. The use of local independent pharmacies decreased from 12% to 8% between October 2006 and December 2008.

As a consumer, I can understand changing one’s shopping habits to find lower-priced drug options or selecting a generic drug over a brand name drug when one is available. But it doesn’t make sense to me that anyone should go without a medication they need because of cost. It is often asked whether healthcare is a right or a privilege-and everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion. But if a person is sick and there is a drug that can help, I don’t think the thickness of one’s wallet should determine whether the person can access the needed drug.