In Times of Illness - Narcotics Anonymous

Informing OurHealthcare Providers“…we accept responsibility for our problems and see thatwe’re equally responsible for our solutions.”BASIC TEXTWe are responsible for our recovery, but there maybe times when a team of healthcare providers willadminister our medical care. We have a right andresponsibility to participate as an equal partner byinforming our healthcare providers of our needs. Itis vital to carefully consider all options presentedto us. Professionals will have difficulty providing uswith adequate care unless we are honest with them.We apply basic safeguards that will protect ourrecovery when we are seeing a medical professional;it is usually in our best interest to inform them thatwe are recovering addicts.Explain that abstinence from mind- ormood-altering medication is our goalin recovery.Consider and discuss alternative treatmentsand smaller doses when a prescription formind-changing or mood-altering medicationis offered.Take our sponsor or a trusted NA friend withus when we are going to the doctor.In the event that we encounter medical professionalswho do not understand the disease of addiction,we take the opportunity to share with them aboutIn Times of Illness7