In a recent government meeting, a physician detailed his struggles with substance abuse, revealing a troubling timeline that began in 2019. The physician, who had been prescribed Adderall for attention deficit disorder, turned to illicit stimulants, specifically methamphetamine, after a nationwide shortage of the medication. He admitted to using methamphetamine approximately twice a day during 2020, a period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic when he was unable to practice medicine fully due to hospital closures.

The physician clarified that while he was using methamphetamine, he did not treat patients while under the influence. However, he acknowledged that he continued to see a limited number of patients during this time, raising concerns about the potential risks associated with his substance use.

During the meeting, questions arose regarding the physician's compliance with continuing medical education (CME) requirements mandated by the state of Connecticut. He confirmed that he had maintained his CME requirements and submitted necessary documentation during his license renewal process, although he faced challenges in accessing records due to theft.

The discussion also touched on the physician's living situation, where he mentioned having squatters in his apartment during his substance use. He denied that any of these individuals were his patients, despite the chaotic environment contributing to his struggles with addiction.

The physician's account highlights the intersection of substance abuse and professional responsibilities, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. His admission of using illicit substances from 2020 to 2023 underscores the urgent need for support and treatment for healthcare professionals facing similar issues.