OWENS WALK OUT OF THE APPOINTMENT
I sought care from Dr Owens for Lyme Disease. I've had Lyme disease for 13 years. I understand it is a confusing disease that can manifest itself in many many ways. For me, Lyme feels like having the flu mixed with a hang over while recovering from a car accident.
2019 Dr Owens prescribed a pain patch called Butrans. It's given me so much of my life back. Several yrs ago I switched to a private doctor, needing more specialized care, that didn't work out so I came back to Dr Owens practice.
When I tried to make appt I was told - quite rudely- I'd need 60-90 days of rehab before they'd THINK about seeing me. It took 3 wks to sort this out that I was not an addict. Meanwhile, I tried to find another doctor, but no one else in town prescribes Butrans so for 3 wks I was filled w dread - about to face withdrawals AND the full force of Lyme.
I've had limited experience with withdrawal from Butrans (longest time w/o wearing a patch 4 days) but it feels like your body is covered in Icy Hot then given several espressos shots. It is VERY unpleasant.
The fear of having to live life off the patch plus going through full withdrawal was... crushing. It left me emotionally paralyzed.
I showed up 15 min prior to my appt, they had me sit in a room where I could clearly hear Dr Owens causally chatting in a break room for AN HOUR. A full hour. When he came in, he spent 15 min explaining how the DEA has changed laws, yes I know. I am a pain patient, I know. I agree with everything he's says. For 15 min. Finally fed up, I ask why he's repeating himself. He said "the break in your care is a red flag". So, in light of recent events (drug addict accusation) I asked "so if I leave your practice for 3 yrs and come back, I'll assumed an addict? If thats how you run your practice, I'm out."
Dr Brian Owens stood up and said "BYE" and walked out.
Dr Owens is a medical professional. I was seeking his help to manage this awful disease. I understand mistakes happen, humans are not perfect beings. But in this situation, Dr Owens and his staff did not treat me with the basic respect any living being deserves. I am so very disheartend to have medical professionals treat me with such disrespect and hold no regard for the simple fact: I'm sick. I need a doctor. read more