I am writing in response to Joe Lawlor’s Nov. 11 article, “Overdose deaths declining in Maine.” This is truly a wonderful thing.

Gordon Smith, director of opioid response for Gov. Janet Mills’ administration, points to a number of strategies that have helped. I noted that he did not mention the draconian measures taken by the State of Maine Board of Licensure in Medicine that limited physician practices, including early retirement. The regulatory board has also imposed consent agreements on more than 100 higher prescription providers.

I’ve been a member of multiple ethic committees in my 40 years and this carried ethical concerns for me. The agreement required me to admit bad care, which I could not do in good conscience. I know I have the highest respect from my patients, colleagues (including ER and other specialists) and nursing staff, due to my years of dedication to a caring, patient-centered, shared decision-making practice.

Medical access in Maine is limited. Because of the loss of these practices, patients have less access to care in order to treat their other important health issues necessary in a primary care practice. The treatment of pain and opioid addiction is difficult, requiring thoughtfulness and compassion. There is still much to learn. We need to do better. Further attention and debate — and possible changes to the medical board — is necessary.

Jeffrey Brown, MD emeritus
Auburn