Insurance, drug abuse linked

While I commend the state of Utah for trying to stem the abuse of prescription pain medications, I think they need to more closely examine another source of the problem. I would appreciate knowing the percentage of patients who abuse pain medication who are either uninsured or underinsured.

As a health-care provider, I cannot refer them to physical therapy. I cannot order diagnostic imaging that might more accurately diagnose the source of their pain. They cannot be referred to a specialist in rheumatology, pain, orthopedics or neurology.

As a state we can take the lead in making sure all Utahns have access to adequate health insurance, including adequate funding and access to drug treatment programs and mental health care. This would be a comprehensive solution to the problem of pain medication abuse.

Susan Chasson

Provo