A California database tracks all narcotic prescriptions in the state to help identify potential drug abuse, but many physicians are concerned that patient privacy is being compromised, the AP/Contra Costa Times reports.
Law enforcement officials say the CURES database, which is the oldest and largest nationwide, is a useful tool for tracking drug abusers or suspicious prescribing patterns by doctors. However, some physicians and patient advocates say the government monitoring is harming patients who need the medications.
"These databases chill prescribing," Siobhan Reynolds, founder of the not-for-profit Pain Relief Network, said, adding, "If we had the resources, we would try to shut down every one."
But California Attorney General Jerry Brown (D) and other law enforcement officials said the database is needed to cut prescription drug abuse. "There is no evidence that legitimate treatment is being suppressed or being discouraged," Brown said, adding, "I think there are more cases out there than are being prosecuted"
Only Justice Department officials can access the database directly. Physicians and pharmacists must fax patient background requests to the agency in order to obtain information. Some argue the current process is too time-consuming to catch patients who receive multiple prescriptions from more than one physician, the AP/Times reports (Elias, AP/Contra Costa Times, 10/19).