Physicians Feel Limited by New Kentucky Prescription Drug Laws

Tags: anesthesia | controlled substance | drug abuse law | pain medication

Kentucky physicians say tougher prescription drug standards sometimes force them to choose between appropriately treating a patient and abiding by regulations, according to The Associated Press.

The state law passed earlier this year in an attempt to stop drug abuse may keep some physicians from writing prescriptions for pain and anxiety controlled substances, said Gregory Hood, MD, with the Kentucky chapter of the American College of Physicians.

The new regulations include drug screening and social security number reporting for patients receiving prescriptions. State officials say the news laws won't hurt physicians but will help put illegitimate clinics out of business.

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