If you’re nervous about discussing past or present substance use with your doctor, you’re not alone. Many individuals worry about being harshly judged or receiving a lower quality of medical care when disclosing addiction issues to their healthcare provider. Some other fears you might be experiencing may include:
- Being stigmatized or lectured by your doctor
- Not receiving fair medical treatment due to former substance use
- Being reported to some authority or agency
- Having substance use included on your medical record
- Not ready to admit you have a problem with drugs or alcohol
While these concerns are valid, not being truthful about substance use can have a significant impact on your health, with effects ranging from mild to severe. For example, certain medications can interact poorly with drugs or alcohol or make certain treatments ineffective.
Fortunately, healthcare professionals are bound by ethical codes and confidentiality agreements. And your journey toward recovery is, in fact, often viewed positively — as a sign of strength and commitment to better health. Discrimination based on your recovery status is not only unethical but goes against the core principles of medical practice. Doctors are trained to provide the best possible care, regardless of a patient’s past.
Navigating Healthcare While In Recovery
No matter how long you’ve been in recovery, the healthcare system can be full of challenges and uncertainties. Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for care:
Doctor-Patient Confidentiality
First — don’t worry that disclosing past or present drug use will get you into any legal trouble. Doctors are not cops, and they cannot release your medical information to a third party without your consent due to doctor-patient confidentiality. Additionally, your doctor can’t be called on to testify against you in a legal trial unless you waive this right.
Prioritize Your Health
Your health should be your top priority, and being honest with your healthcare provider is a crucial part of that. Remember, your doctor’s goal is to ensure your well-being. Providing complete and honest information about your substance use history and recovery status allows them to offer you the most effective care possible. They can also provide additional support if you’re feeling overwhelmed or on the verge of a relapse to help maintain your sobriety.
Find a Doctor You Trust
Finding a healthcare provider you feel comfortable with is essential. A good doctor-patient relationship is based on trust, respect and open communication. If you don’t feel at ease with your current doctor, it’s okay to find another provider who better understands and supports your recovery journey. Try looking for a primary care doctor with experience or an interest in substance use disorders, who might have more insight and compassion.
Talk to Your Doctor
Your doctor is your ally in your journey toward recovery. Disclosing your substance use history to your doctor won’t get you blacklisted, but it may get you better, more effective medical care tailored to your unique needs. When you find the right doctor, embrace this partnership — you both share the same goal of wanting to improve and maintain your overall health.
For more information on how New Day Recovery can support your journey to wellness, feel free to contact us at (318) 855 -8773 to schedule an appointment.
