SENSELESS RESTRICTIONS ON METHADONE The concern of Anacostia residents about a methadone clinic opening in their midst [Metro, Oct. 13] is understandable, although somewhat exaggerated. Unlike every other drug in the United States, methadone cannot be prescribed by physicians in their offices or distributed by pharmacists. These senseless restrictions make clinics the only option for patients and communities. There is a better way. Countries such as Canada, Australia and England are eliminating their not-in-my-backyard problems by permitting methadone patients to pick up their prescribed methadone doses at community pharmacies convenient to their home or work. Allowing doctors to prescribe and pharmacies to dispense methadone to patients working to improve their lives betters the quality of life for all. Holly Catania, Director, Methadone Policy Project, The Lindesmith Center, New York The Lindesmith Center is a project of George Soros's Open Society Institute.
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