As a semi-retired physician in addiction medicine, I am very concerned about the trial and up-coming sentencing of Dr. Merideth Norris. For an out-of-state expert witness to say Dr. Norris should have referred to a higher level of care, when little-to-none of that is available to most of our patients, was very frustrating to those treating these diseases. The difficulty of obtaining treatment for chronic pain ensures that the opioid epidemic will not end soon.

As older physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) retire, many chronic pain patients find themselves without anyone to continue their care. Newer providers seem to be avoiding any use of opioids and other controlled substances ( i.e. ADHD meds, benzodiazepines), while quality pain-related supportive services (physical therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, acupuncture, etc) are hard to find and harder to access.

It is my hope that sentencing for Dr. Norris will take into account her years of dedication, compassion and accountability for this often abandoned group of patients with serious medical issues. I am not denying that aspects of her treatment could have been different, but I am concerned that, without a more cohesive approach to illnesses that cause loss of functionality and of life, doctors and APPs treating these patients may decide it is far too dangerous for them to risk taking care of patients with chronic pain and/or addictions.

Susan Cary
Cape Elizabeth