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This is far outside my area of knowledge. I will leave it to others to respond.
I tried to obtain licensure in a state recently. They somehow had knowledge that I am in pain management (one of the 10 or so states in which licensing agencies have access to the state prescription drug database). My doctor is in the state I just left-only 2 states away (8.5 hour drive). I cannot find a doc in this area (I did try)- plus I go back twice per month anyway to visit my SO, and figured I would keep all my docs-visiting them while I am in town.
I was called into the PHP, and asked questions about all my medications. I answered honestly. They were concerned the boards here would not grant me a license.
After a very bad car accident 2.5 years ago, I almost left medicine, and due to the pain was on the verge of the unthinkable. In a last ditch attempt to hold onto my life and my career, I entered pain management.
My dosage has remained steady with no increases whatsoever for the last 2 years. I do not divert, have never done anything illegal with my meds, don't run out early, don't doctor shop or visit ER's trying to obtain additional meds. Nothing to suggest an addiction problem.
I was told by the state's PHP that because opioids make one "impaired" that I needed a consult from a $3000 3-day drug rehab facility. There are no pain management docs at this facility, only 'addictionologists' and I am wondering if they are overstepping their boundaries in not realizing they lack proper training in dealing with chronic pain patients.
I do not think entering drug rehab for people with real addictions is a wise avenue for me to go down, especially since I have been stable and functional for years now- and literally 'got my life back.' I still have chronic pain when I do not take my meds, just in case anybody asks if I ever tried to go off and realize the problem is gone. I have a 13 year old spinal fusion, and possible adhesions in the area as well; so I am not faking my pain.
I finished residency, and now am worrying that after all these years it has all been for nothing.
Please advise.