One common objection to physician dispensing is the challenge presented by drug seekers. Though drug seekers can be a problem for any prescriber, dispensing physicians have the additional challenge of dealing with a patient who knows they have products at the clinic.
But how can you tell the difference between patients with a legitimate need and ones simply seeking the drugs?
The DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) says some common signs of seekers include the following:
- Assertive personality, demanding immediate treatment
- Unusual appearance – either too sloppy or too well-dressed
- May exaggerate medical problems or simulate symptoms
- Will often request a specific controlled substance and be hesitate to try another drug
- May show unusual knowledge of controlled substances or give textbook answers for symptoms
Pharmaceutical dispensing may attract seekers and the physician should be looking for some of these “tricks”:
- Must be seen right away
- Wants to be seen near the end of office hours or after regular hours
- Feigns physical or psychological problems
- Contends that his/her regular practitioner is not available
- Non-resident – passing through
Dispensing systems can support the physician on a number of levels but will provide little assistance in the face of a drug seeker. For more information, The American Pain Foundation offers a detailed description of addiction in the write-up by Dr. Scott Fishman entitled Addiction.
Drug seekers are a real issue that many physicians face. But being able to identify them is the first step in correctly handling a difficult situation. Northwind understands all the challenges related to dispensing. Contact us today to see how our solutions can help you!
