METHADONE IS A MEDICATION, SO 'USER' IS THE WRONG WORD

Re: Methadone users 'get pharmacy kickbacks,' Sept. 9

No one could fail to condemn people who are alleged to accept bribes
such as this -- or, especially, those who offer them.

But The Sun's reporters and editors should reflect on the use of the
term "methadone users." Whatever the intent, the clear message is one
of disdain. These individuals receive a medication from specially
licensed physicians as part of a treatment regimen known for 40 years
to be highly effective.

Can you imagine describing diabetics, even those who are woefully
non-compliant with medical advice, as "insulin users"?

Robert Newman, MD

New York City