It is a sad fact that so many doctors in our state practice what is known as
"defensive medicine." Often, doctors and their patients know pain medication
is needed for certain conditions, but the doctor is afraid to prescribe
sufficient pain medication, relying instead on potentially harmful
anti-inflamatory drugs and acetaminophen.

This practice of defensive medicine comes from the doctor's fear of Drug
Enforcement Agency intervention whenever narcotic medications are involved.
The DEA is meant to protect us from foreign drug smugglers yet they
constantly interfere with doctor/patient relationships.

This year the voters of Washington state have the chance to stand up for the
rights of doctors and their patients. Initiative 685 gives doctors the right
to discuss and decide on the best medical care possible without interference
from the DEA.

Stand up for the rights of doctors and medical patients. Help end the
fearful practice of defensive medicine in our state. Vote yes on Initiative
685.

Tom G. Hawkins
Grand Coulee, WA