[(JD)]

I just read a post by eskielover who mentioned her pain doc had all the documentation he needed for the DEA (to validate the controlled substance use.) I think I got that right. Ok, so does anyone know or have a link to what type of documentation is suitable for the DEA to not hassle an MD over prescriptions for a controlled substance? I'm SURE this is why my MD is giving me a hard time. Anyone? Thanks!

[CedarS]

I've been researching this some, it is a land of confusion unfortunately. For instance, at one point the DEA issued a FAQ/frequently asked questions document that covered chronic pain issues. But then later they withdrew it, no longer on their site I hear.

Also, along with the DEA, there is the challenge of state medical boards who can discipline physicians for various reasons, varies according to state and time.

Tons of legal language to wade through.

Some possible leads:

How Good Documentation Satisfies DEA Investigators

This is a conversation with a doctor, does not give full specifics, though does give added info.

Then when I look to say, Florida board of medicine: Standards

I found this near bottom of page:

---------

f) Medical Records. The physician is required to keep accurate and complete records to include, but not be limited to:

1. the medical history and physical examination;

2. diagnostic, therapeutic, and laboratory results;

3. evaluations and consultations;

4. treatment objectives;

5. discussion of risks and benefits;

6. treatments;

7. medications (including date, type, dosage, and quantity prescribed);

8. instructions and agreements; and

9. periodic reviews.

Records must remain current and be maintained in an accessible manner and readily available for review.

------------

That Standards page gives you the exact administrative code details, ideally this would then be checked in the administrative code book/pdfs and updated info found if there is any.

Florida Administrative Code

In my experience, physicians are more and more leery of using pain meds for patients with chronic pain because of insurance, DEA, state board, their own ignorance, their own choices, and probably a myriad of other reasons.

Good luck!
Sarah

DEA worth browsing through.

More thoughts on this, ideally, and I know we don't live in an ideal world, when we ask DEA what they need, we would get a clear answer. When we talk with our docs, they would clearly and fully communicate. And of course, we would get the meds we need.

[(JD)]

Goodness! Thank you much! It will take me a while to dissect just what you have here... but from what I scanned, my MD has no reason to be afraid or whatever she is! sigh. Thanks again!