0
0
In a heartening narrative of resilience against opioid addiction, the story of a patient’s triumphant journey towards permanent recovery underscores the vital role of primary care physicians in the ongoing management of substance abuse disorders.
Dr. Daniel Lewis, an esteemed internal medicine doctor at the Facey Medical Group in Los Angeles, shared his patient’s inspiring transition from nearly a decade of grappling with opioid addiction to expressing readiness for lasting recovery. Lewis expressed profound satisfaction, highlighting this milestone as a pinnacle in his clinical practice.
Lewis diligently monitored his patient’s progress through regular checkups, leveraging both virtual and in-person consultations. His assessments encompassed inquiries into potential opioid withdrawal symptoms and the patient’s adaptation to pain management without narcotics. This meticulous follow-up care by Lewis is emblematic of a larger trend among primary care physicians, emphasizing the importance of sustained engagement in aiding recovery.
Statistics from the National Institute on Drug Abuse underscore the prevalence of substance abuse disorders in the United States. Amidst this backdrop, the US Preventive Services Task Force advocated for screenings and interventions. However, the focus has shifted towards post-screening care and recovery management checkups (RMC), recommended by Lewis to be conducted every three to four months for those combatting addiction.
These RMCs, as Lewis outlined, go beyond traditional treatments and counseling offered at substance abuse centers. The approach involves a comprehensive evaluation during each visit, recognizing the heightened risks associated with drug abuse and the necessity for more frequent monitoring to avert potential complications.
Dr. Kendra Segura, an OB/GYN with the To Help Everyone Health and Wellness Centers in Los Angeles, emphasized the multi-faceted approach necessary for effective patient care. She highlighted the challenges clinicians face in encouraging honesty among patients due to various concerns like job security, childcare, and benefits.
Segura’s recent experience with a pregnant patient revealed the significance of a collaborative healthcare approach. A positive drug test prompted deeper exploration, enabling Segura to provide tailored support and referrals, resulting in a successful outcome despite initial setbacks.
Furthermore, recent studies affirm the efficacy of recovery checkups within primary care settings. These findings reinforce the value of continuous follow-ups in sustaining long-term recovery and improved substance use outcomes.
Dr. Michael Barry, chair of the US Preventive Services Task Force, likened recovery management checkups to successful smoking cessation programs, emphasizing the significance of consistent support and positive reinforcement in preventing relapse.
This comprehensive approach, involving primary care physicians in tandem with specialized care, underscores the crucial role of ongoing engagement and support in the journey toward sustained recovery from substance abuse disorders.
Robert Fulton, a California-based freelance writer, contributed to this report.
