https://www.painnewsnetwork.org/stories/2017/11/6/zj8hhgroy36lfd9m0t3v2xnq7zvl18

I am the Administrator for a small pain group on Facebook. Many of the members have been telling me about this over the past year or so, and it was disgusting to hear each person tell a similar story. Or tell me they’re drug tested twice a year, and paying $3500 for the “privilege”!

When I first met with my current primary care physician, I noticed a pain contract in her office and every restroom was fully stocked for drug tests. It was an immediate turn-off, and her behavior towards me didn’t help matters.

At one appointment I watched a woman pull out roughly twenty prescriptions for the doctor to count the pills. I don’t know about most of you, but I’m extremely careful, and mindful, when I have a controlled substance on my person. I worry about theft, or simply being accused, or arrested for possession, as there are certainly people in this world who are selling their medication. I only take one controlled substance, and it isn’t for pain, but I make sure there are only 4-6 in the prescription bottle if I’m going out. If I’ve just picked it up, I put it in my bag and go straight home.

After receiving little-to-no treatment from this physician since April, I will be leaving to consult with someone further away. I genuinely hope this doctor will be able to help me, without treating me like an addict for suffering from chronic pain. I don’t have anything to hide, but monthly drug testing is, genuinely, taking advantage of the system. Drug test people if you suspect addiction issues, or because it is required by law, otherwise I expect to be treated like a patient.

The only things I’m addicted to are Polar seltzer, hummus, dark chocolate, and warm socks. Yeah, drug test me yesterday!