It is a pain to get medications refilled by MDs

When I first began treatment for my chronic pain I worked with a pain management Dr. for over 4 years to get the correct dosage and everything that I needed to more or less control my pain and still be able to function and have a quality of life. Once this was accomplished I talked to my primary care physician of 16 yrs. to see if she would take over writing my prescriptions. She agreed and this has worked well for 4 or 5 years now. I have never called with lame excuses for why I have run out of medicine (I never had) or any other crap that Md's see with drug seeking patients. I also see a huge benefit to having one MD prescribing all of my medicine instead of 3 or 4 MD writing a variety of Rx's.

I also believe in continuity of care... which seems to be a thing of the past.

Last month I was informed by the "phone nurse" that my Dr. has decided to no longer treat chronic pain patients. All that she does for me is write my Rx's every 2 or 3 months and takes care of my annual physical.

I admit, I have been a little freaked out by this but keep reminding myself that I have not heard it from my Dr. yet and until I do I don't need to worry. But in this day and age finding a Dr. that will prescribe pain meds is extremely difficult. I don't need to go back to a pain management Dr. for any reason... I am on a good pain regimen. Besides, going to a specialist cost me an additional $25 in co-payments a visit and 2-3 hours wait time in their lovely waiting room.

Specialist's are just that, a Dr. that you use for specialized illnesses not just writing a monthly Rx. I guess if she really is going to kick me to the curb on this issue I will begin the search for a new primary care doctor who will manage and oversee this aspect of my health. If I ever feel that an adjustment needs to be made in dosage or type of pain med I am on I will go to the specialist but just for a written Rx I find it a bit ridiculous.

I would love to hear your feedback on this matter. Also, if passed how will the new health care reform affect this issue?