Fibromyalgia Support Group

You're not alone in your pain. Fibromyalgia is a condition that can be difficult to diagnose and manage. If you're trying to cope with pain throughout your body, sleep problems, general fatigue, or other common fibromyalgia symptoms, you're in the right place. The community is here for you to talk about therapies and share your challenges.

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WashingtonMom 01/31/2013

I am in the middle of getting my care switched to new doctors because I am having a hard time with my regular doctor.
I finally found a WONDERFUL GYN doctor that listens to me and has given me names of doctors in my area that she feels are great doctors with pain patients. She suggested 3 PA and 3 doctors. She said she really liked one of the male PA's and I would like to see him, but with all the Hydrocodone restrictions that may happen, I am wondering if I should go to a Doctor instead.
Does anyone prefer PA's over docs? And if so, will you still be able to get your pain meds from them if this restriction goes through?

deleted_user 01/31/2013

Most PA's have to have a doctor overseeing them because they already have restrictions as to what type of medications they can prescribe. I would suggest going online reading what you can about each and then deciding and if you are still unsure go and see a few and then make your decision.

PeaceN2You 01/31/2013

You will NOT be able to get hydrocodone from a PA if it's rescheduled to Schedule II.

PAs and NPs cannot prescribe Schedule II narcotics.

If the PA of NP is working under a doctor's immediate supervision, there may not be an issue, but for those in areas where the PA or NP is the only one there, as in some rural areas and clinics, they will no longer be able to prescribe hydrocodone.

I was on a conference call attended by one of the members of the FDA committee tonight, and she clarified exactly what the schedule change would mean in terms of who can prescribe.

Again, if the PA or NP is in an office WITH a doctor, it may not be a problem, but they will no longer be able to write a prescription, sign it, and hand it to you.

fibrolizzy 01/31/2013

So, Peace, from your understanding, if we are prescribed hydro from our GP, he would still be able to prescribe it? Do you know if it can have refills with it?

Any info would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Elizabeth

WashingtonMom 01/31/2013

Thank you Peace for your info. I live in a large city and the PA does have doctors in the office, so I think it should be OK. I think going with a PA would be a good fit for me, as my doctor has left a bad taste in my mouth. :(

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