Oxycodone Known

Since our State Board of Pharmacy recently published an on-line prescription history database for doctors, we've verified that some of our patients who we suspected were abusers, are abusers. They're addicted to oxycodone and other narcotics, and they've been going from doctor to doctor, making up stories, and getting multiple prescriptions filled. Now we have the ability to screen new patients carefully for prescription drug abuse and while we're on the phone setting up the appointment, I can download the entire prescription history in 3 minutes.

Some of the patients genuinely need oxycodone like the patient with the shredded rotator cuff which was verified by an MRI. But sometimes we have to remind ourselves not be suspicious all the time, that is, ever since we met Mr. Kidder (sic). He walked into the office unexpectedly one morning, stating he had fallen in the shower and hurt his tailbone. "Could he see a doctor?", he pleaded sincerely.

One look at the patient and Dr. Richard informed me that he believed Mr. Kidder to be a drug-seeker. To prove his point, and squelch any doubts among the staff, the kind doctor gently conducted his physical examination which, due to the nature of the so-called injury, included a rectal digitation. In that, according to Dr. Richard, the patient didn't flinch, the coccyx was determined to be not fractured, and Extra-Strength Tylenol was prescribed for the professed discomfort. The patient, upon realizing that he would not conclude his visit with the desired oxycodone prescription in hand, discreetly departed the premises in a state of profound consternation.

He left behind a balance due, his bogus address and phone number, and a lengthy narcotic abuse report, freshly downloaded and printed.

Mr. Kidder, indeed.