Pubdate: Mon, 29 Dec 2014
Source: Buffalo News (NY)
Copyright: 2014 The Buffalo News
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/GXIzebQL
Website: http://www.buffalonews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/61
Author: Scott T. Steel

DRUG-MONITORING SYSTEM IS AN INVASION OF PRIVACY

Having just read about I-STOP/PMP (Internet System for Tracking 
Over-Prescribing/Prescription Monitoring Program) in New York State, 
I thought I would share my view on the very similar system we have in 
Ontario called the Ontario Narcotics Control Act. This act was 
implemented sneakily by our provincial government, and has made many 
people's lives much more difficult than need be.

I don't deny that there are those who abuse certain prescription 
drugs, and they will always be with us no matter how many bills are 
passed, but the government is now treating pretty much everyone as an 
addict through this act, and getting and renewing certain opiate 
painkillers has become an odyssey. If one wishes to go on vacation 
for a few weeks, getting the required amount of meds can be likened 
to going through the inquisition.

Then there are the "intervals," which are normally 30 days, during 
which no listed prescription can be refilled. So if you are an 
elderly person who misplaces your painkillers, you're in a bit of a bind.

However, the most abhorrent aspect of Ontario's act, and of New York 
State's act, is the blatant invasion of privacy by the state. The 
state has no need at all to know which legal medications any of us 
take, and even Ontario's privacy commissioner agreed, but the law was 
passed regardless.

Scott T. Steel

Southampton, Ont.
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