No pain relief for Florida

[dmckennerney]

The govenor of FL has decided that no longer can a GP or family doc prescribe any narcotics (or any other drugs on *the list*). As a nurse and patient advocate, I have a hard time understanding what our govenor has done. I understand the idea is to stop illegal drug use by curbing who dispenses what...but the idea of denying pain control for so many people that don't abuse and are really in need of their pain meds to insure quality of life, just has me fuming! In fact, this act makes me believe illegal drug use will continue as usual, just with higher prices.; after all, what's to keep the drugs coming from a dr in another state?
One proponent of the bill stated that a large majority of 'pill mills' are the pain clinics; so why, then, take the ability from g.p's and require all to go to these 'pill mills'?
My research has uncovered a $350 1st time visit fee with no insurance, and is not, and WILL NEVER, be covered by Medicaid.
I am further dismayed by the nurses I have spoken with that are clueless to this new bill that has been signed.
What happened to the patient's right to be treated for their pain?

[Tofayel]

US government are really funny. They legalize homo or lesbian, but try to control drug. Is homo or lesbian not harmful for society?

[BiancaJo]

Another win for pharmaceutical companies and a loss for patients who need relief. So tragic and frustrating.

[GitanoRN]

Unquestionably, the government by trying to deal with some issues, they make other issues and complicate the issues!

[MissMelissRoths03]

Some states are legalizing marijuana yet, some states favor the pharm companies and hurt those that TRULY need medicine. It is frustrating to say the least. It is hard to have faith in our government and system when we see so many who really need help denied it while others reap the rewards of bad legislation.