The relationship you have with your physician is one of the more important ones in your life. After all, not only do you rely on your doctor to treat you, but he or she also must know about potentially delicate information. If you are not comfortable with your primary care physician, it is probably a good idea to look for another one.
Nevertheless, if you are shopping for new doctors to try to obtain prescriptions for controlled substances, such as opioid pain relievers, you may run afoul of Florida law. In fact, according to state law, doctor shopping can lead to felony criminal charges.
The dangers of drug addiction
Drug addiction can be incredibly difficult to treat. This is because of the body’s reaction to controlled substances. If you have used opioids for an extended period, stopping on your own may be virtually impossible. Regrettably, you are likely to experience extreme withdrawals, which may put your life in danger.
The importance of disclosing prescription medication
If you do not like your doctor, it is perfectly acceptable to find a new one or seek a second opinion. When you visit a new physician, though, you must tell the doctor about any prescriptions you currently have. You should also tell him or her about any other medications you are using.
Failing to disclose prescription medication may expose you to criminal prosecution. That is, prosecutors may believe you are doctor shopping. The same is true if you use a different identity to obtain new or additional prescriptions.
Ultimately, if you are facing doctor shopping charges, it is imperative to explore all possible defenses as soon after your arrest as possible.
