OPIOID CRACKDOWN

By: Elena Jamscek

Starting July 1, 2018 the state of Tennessee is really putting the heat on the providers who prescribe narcotics for pain.

When it comes to pain medication it is important to remember that it is most often used for the short term.  The purpose of pain medication is not to take the pain away completely but to make it more manageable; basically to take the edge off.  It is not a bad thing to take pain medication but to only use it when non narcotic options have failed you.

You may notice some push back when seeking pain medication at your physician’s office and that is due to the new laws that have been put in place.  Please have patience, be honest, and be compliant with your medication.

A 3 day supply should not be a problem but anymore and your provider may require you to sign compliance forms.  This is due to the new laws that have been set.

If you need pain medication for long term please have you primary care doctor refer you to a pain management facility.