As part of his pediatric practice, Dr. Safdar Medina treats opioid use disorder. During a recent appointment at a clinic in Uxbridge, Mass., Medina switched a teenage patient's buprenorphine prescription to an injectable form and checked in about his school and social life.As part of his pediatric practice, Dr. Safdar Medina treats opioid use disorder. During a recent appointment at a clinic in Uxbridge, Mass.
We're only using Sam's first name because he could face discrimination in housing and job searches based on his prior drug use. Some pediatricians responded to the survey by saying they don't have enough patients to justify learning about this type of care, or don't think it's a pediatrician's job. Terranella says pediatricians can help by stepping up screening for — and having conversations about — all types of drug use.
"Is it almost done?" Sam asks, while a nurse coaches him to breathe deeply. When it's over, the staff joke out loud that even adults usually swear when they get the shot. Sam says he didn't know that was allowed. He's mostly worried about any residual soreness that might interfere with his evening plans."I totally think you can snowboard tonight," Dr. Medina says reassuringly.
He's come to this appointment with his mom, Julie. She says she's grateful the family found a doctor who understands teens and substance use.
Health Health Latest News, Health Health Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Source: CBS21NEWS - 🏆 304. / 63 Read more »