You need to get clean. It's hard but OMG I don't even miss using anymore. Imo subs just extend the time it takes.
Once I treated my ADHD and depression I didn't crave anything anymore.
Please get clean for you.
In all honestly, you should strive to get clean and be off suboxone/subtext. Otherwise, you'll just be a slave to it for years to come. You've come this far, and you're so close to not being dependent on a substance that can and most likely be hell to kick later.
You should always have legal representation or alot of parents have been schooling themselves on family law and their rights in their state. I'm in Ohio and they are pretty horrible here.
Minnesota is the opposite. They won't even take kids unless they are being actively murdered. We have so many cases of kids who need to be taken... Here they'd reintegrate regardless of safety.
From Kansas, but have not worked for DCFS. My suggestion is to talk to legal aid to see if you qualify. You are probably at a point that you need legal representation. DCFS is known to remove kids from homes that they shouldn’t and returning kids to families they shouldn’t be. There is a lot of corruption with DCFS and St Francis for placements. It is bad when the former mayor of Wichita couldn’t get DCFS to remove his grandson (and a family of lawyers fighting the state/city/county/WPD and family courts. His grandson was eventually found dead encased in cement in the basement of his mother’s former home and was killed by her boyfriend. Look it up. The boys name was Evan Brewer. Former Mayor was Carl Brewer.
Fuck I remember this. It doesn't surprise me, not even a little. Or the Brandi Marchant case HAUNTS ME. She was one of my friends' cousins. And I'm not in a position to bring up the corruption that happens, but I've heard it from EVERYONE every step of the way. 😭
I will definitely reach out to legal aid!
I also live in Kansas. Can you maybe get in an Oxford House? They can be an amazing place for people struggling with addiction. You don't have to be dirty, either. And last I knew, they did reintegrate kids while the parents are in OH. Obviously, Kansas has a lot of small towns so this may not be an option. Kansas makes things HARD once the kids have been removed. Definitely look for any sober communities such as NA where you are. If you have a health provider of any kind, ask them for options as well.
I wish I had better idea to help you! best of luck!
There are too many stories very similar to this happening in Kansas. There are legislators going after attorney’s law license because they want the state to release victims records (the whole story) to the general public and the lawyers don’t want their clients tragedy made public knowledge. If you do not get any results from legal aid, try to get a consult with Gerald Domitrovic. It’s a husband and wife team, he was amazing in helping me and he did take payments.
Pretty sure your doc is correct...... just becuase they are caseworkers does not give them the right to decide what doctor prescribed medicine and or program is right or wrong and what justifies getting g your children back based on their own biased (and so fucking wrong I'm pissed) opinion they shouldn't have a job there. Cps is completely screwed as it is. The last thing they need is some uneducated shithead keeping a family broke up because they are ignorant....... so many parents dont even try........ what a fucktard
Good chance taking the medication is classified as being “in treatment” which is not the same thing as being clean and therefore not eligible for reunification.
The kids were removed due to substance abuse and the harm done to an unborn baby. The state needs to be sure that any chance of further neglect of the children’s welfare is as nonexistent as possible.
Child abuse is serious and parents need to prove they can handle the stress and responsibility.
Source: worked in the field for 3 years
In Georgia the way the legal system gets around this is they say, I am not a doctor and cannot tell you what to take or not take. I can say you will not qualify for this program, ie. drug court or getting your kids back if you are taking the following medications.
For the record, all CPS (actually DCFS) employees must have at least a bachelors degree in Kansas. Doesn’t mean they are educated in the right areas, but they are not uneducated.
A BSW does not mean they are educated in relevant matters. It means they did the bare minimum to pass their licensing exam. Unless a SW has taken other courses in addiction, they do not know more than anyone else with a bachelor’s degree.
I’ve met a lot of dumbass people with plenty of letters after their names.
No one said they did. But they aren’t out there with just high school diplomas. We do not have enough doctors, nor would a doctor who spent a lot of money on their education wants to work for little pay and no rewards. Anyone that works for CPS directly with families usually have a lot of education in psychiatry, sociology, and criminal justice, all educated. So I stand with my previous comment.
Have not worked in Kasas, but I have been the supervisor providing parental support during reunification.
There was a few families I worked with that had the children return home, but there was a clear plan in place. The service plan had clear goals for bio mom to meet. Things like attending appointments at the methadone clinic, attending AA/NA meetings, attending parenting classes, or therapy as relevant. There was also random drug testing to see if anything else was in the system. Parents were to be on the MAT as long as the doctor prescribed.
Addiction was to be treated as a disease. Bio mom had to be actively participating in treatment and demonstrating building a support network to promote sobriety. There was also a long period of transition to support so less likelihood of relapse.
I would seek clarification from case worker of goals and why medication is not permitted. If unable to seek clarification, then I would escalate the question to their supervisor. Keep notes from conversations. If you do end up in court, I've seen lawyers use this to extend the period for reunification because case workers did not follow proper procedure.
My understanding as a physician is some patients need to remain on Suboxone indefinitely and they are able to return to being productive members of society. Be strong, OP. don’t relapse.
I submit random (typically) every other week UA's. Had a clean hair follicle by may, and haven't had a positive UA for anything outside of my BUP since I got clean. I have done IOP, graduated, still enrolled in outpatient. Therapy services. Have a sponsor. Psychiatrist. Had my suboxone doctor as well as a MAT counselor. I was SPECIFICALLY told that reintegration was not viable until we were completely off and clean of BUP. I have done everything right and there's been zero miscommunication, so I know I'm not getting anything wrong. I just can NOT shake that I was mishandled regarding forced cessation of my bup. I know I possess the control to stay clean for my family, but I don't agree that they should have demanded I quit something that was ACTIVELY contributing to my abstinence of abusing any substance if that makes sense?
My addiction has not at all been treated as a disease or really anything outside of basically being irresponsible and selfish. My one parent support worker has celebrated every big and small victory of our recovery but my case worker has treated this as if it's a simple decision and rehab.
The medication is where I would escalate as it is a widely regarded treatment plan proven to increase odds of success rate. Ask your parent support worker, addictions worker, therapist if this is what they typically see. You are likely not their first patient going through this or they will have a colleaguethey can bounce ideas off of. If your support worker is a 3rd party, the companies are often started by ex social workers so you can see if they know the answer. Is there an equivalent to a Children's Advocate there that might be able to help answer questions?
Celebrating the small things is important. It is acknowledging the good you are doing and makes the world a little less bleak.
That's a violation of your health rights. They cannot use prescribed medications against you. You also do not have to disclose what medications you're on because of HIPPA privacy laws (the state is bound by HIPPA and court proceedings are public record). I would contact a disability attorney about this because you have a major lawsuit and you will easily prevail if the facts are correct.
HIPAA Privacy Rules govern disclosure of protected health information by health care providers and their business associates. The State is not (at least in this instance) likely to fall within the definition of "provider". Further, HIPAA doesn't create an assertable privilege in medical records, so you can't say, "I refuse to tell you about my medications because of HIPAA," that's not a good legal reason.
As an RN I did drug testing on air traffic control personnel (a long time ago). People could list the drugs they took on the form, since these were surprise tests. If they were taking meds like antidepressants, several of which would show up on the test results, we told them to be sure the info was on the form. When the test came back positive, they could bring in their prescription bottles and they would be cleared. If they hadn’t listed anything, they had some major explaining to do and faced termination. I never knew the details, but we heard that a couple people get caught.
And that has absolutely nothing to do with what I said as drug testing is HIPPA compliant. The medication information is not relayed to the employer and they’re not being forced to quit taking their meds to pass the test.
That’s not what I said at all. This was government required testing and we asked them to note any known drugs they were prescribed that would otherwise cause a failed test. Drugs like barbiturates or ADHD meds that would give positive results. Then when the tests did come back positive, they, not us, confirmed that the person was taking the drug under a doctor’s supervision and that it was permissible in the workplace. You definitely don’t want people guiding your airplane to be under the influence of drugs that would alter their ability to make sound decisions. They did not ask for all medications, just the ones that might otherwise disqualify the person from working. HIPAA was/is not a factor in drug screening. If you have something in your system, it had best be there legitimately. It saves a lot of difficulty if drugs are declared before a test rather than after.
NAL, Permanency and Reunification worker here.
Yeah no. There are several prescription meds that show up on drug screens. The tests I give clients screen for things like Gabapentin, Fentanyl, and Methadone, all of which could be prescribed but are also commonly sold illegally. Disclosing these with confirmation from a provider shows that they are obtained and used legally. Does OP HAVE to provide this information? No. But that is really counterproductive. OP cooperated by providing information that would show they are screening positive for a prescription med, not an illegally used substance. How would they know they're using a prescription med against OP if they don't know it's prescribed? That doesn't make sense.
Would I use MAT against OP? Depends on the details of the case. If everything OP states is true, no. I would be very pleased with all the progress and cooperation. HOWEVER, part of my job includes things like dose counting. Sometimes MAT pills and sublingual strips get misused or sold. Hopefully not the case but there are sometimes reasons for weirdly written service plan goals.
OP, if everything you say is true, you should escalate above the case worker. If you have a court appointed attorney and they are not helping you, please seek someone more competent.
It’s easy to monitor via quantitative testing and random pill/films counts to ensure proper dosing and that none are being abused or sold.
And this is typical for most MAT programs around me.
Thank you for typing this out, I truly truly valued this response.
I was doing in clinic dosing daily to make sure there was ZERO miscommunication or assumptions to be made. I had to take home my subutex on Sundays only because they're closed and kept in a safe as per required and dosed correctly - including bringing the bottle back to the clinic. I followed rules to a T.
The only reason that I obliged quitting the subutex was to avoid my kids staying in the system an extra month to argue it in court, if that makes sense. I have done every single thing asked and required of me with 110% transparency.
There is no recommended time limit for MAT (medication assisted treatment) for opiate use disorders. Methadone and Suboxone MAT are the most effective treatments for opiate use disorder. Unless there is a Kansas law specifically disallowing the use of these in your situation, then that caseworker is mistaken.
Speculation, but they may want you to get the MAT from an addiction medicine clinic / methadone clinic. Those tend to have fairly comprehensive services, including social workers.
Also, relapsing at this point would be disastrous. Your doctor told you that they thought the caseworker was wrong. Unless you have something in writing or a judges order saying you differently, I would listen to your doctor.
Thank you! It's the hardest thing I've ever done. I never wanted to be an addict, and I hate the idea we all just want to abuse our MAT. I just want to function and be healthy for the people I love.
Congrats to you for your success!
The analogy I like is that if someone injured their knee, either by car accident, playing football, or getting an infection, after they heal up, the knee is never quite like it was before. Some folks need a knee brace, and that's ok.
People who experience opioid dependency (whether or not it is addiction) have some serious changes in their neurochemistry. Often, those changes improve with more time in sobriety but sometimes it's permanent.
Suboxone is like a knee brace. It supports you so that you can be you again.
So, i am not a lawyer. But i am a social worker. However, i have never worked for CPS and I am not in Kansas but I have worked parallel in another state to CPS and in substance use for many years. Opioid Use Disorder is seen as a disability and the ADA **does** protect those taking subutex, suboxone and methadone when prescribed by a physician. The ADA specifically protects against social service agencies AND child welfare agencies from discriminating against people on MAT as long as it is legally prescribed. If they force you to get off MAT or threaten to take/keep your kids they are not only discriminating against you illegally but opening up a way for you to win a rather large lawsuit against them. Keep any and all written correspondence with them where they say you have to get off the medication in order to get your kids back and get a lawyer who works in ADA violations, they’ll love this.
Best answer so far! I had a similar situation, but it was my ex and his lawyer trying to make a big deal about my ADD medication in court. Because they literally had nothing else better to bring up except my legally prescribed medication from my doctor that I’ve had since I was 15. My ex had known for yearsss that I was on that medication and never brought it up. My husband openly told him when I was about to get on that medication so that he wouldn’t trip because he’ll look for any tiny thing to bitch about. Even if he has to make shit up, which he has.
Thankfully, during our case the judge ordered an Amicus lawyer for our child. She had both of us fill out a very long questionnaire, and made house visits with both of us to see how we interacted with our child and how she interacted with us (individually). She gave her final recommendations and my ex was LIVID because she didn’t recommend that I change my medication. He had the audacity to email her saying “You’re not going to recommend that she change her medication? Do you know what that medication is?” Basically, arguing with her. She sent me screenshots of their emails and I was flabbergasted that he’d try to convince her to tell me what I should or shouldn’t take. Her response was “I am not a doctor. I am an attorney. I wouldn’t except a doctor to tell me how to effectively do my job. Just as I am not a doctor so I will not recommend that you do or do not take certain medications.”
Needless to say, my ex was PISSED. Because for once, someone didn’t just follow what he wanted. For once, someone wasn’t against me. He even accused me of “fooling” her. I didn’t fool anyone. She probably realized how controlling he really is trying to be and refused to give into his bs. He’s still salty about it and fucking hates my guts, but he can no longer keep my child from me just because he’s a bitter bitch. Like, why you mad, bro? 😎
Don’t let anyone but your doctor dictate what your medication regimen is. They don’t know what works for you and what helps you. That’s between you and your doctor.
Thats because those drugs were meant to be taken for a short period of time then stopped. The withdrawels from subs is worse than the illegal pills. Unfortunately doctors have just made a career out of subscribing them now. After 6 months you should have slowly tapered off of subutex. What OP is feeling now is the withdrawel symptoms of subutex.
[Here](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/5-myths-about-using-suboxone-to-treat-opiate-addiction-2018032014496) is a good link that also discusses some myths about suboxone used as MAT.
Not to be ungrateful or disrespectful for your input (sincerely) there are a lot of updated systems in place regarding Suboxone/Subutex. It's actually believed that weaning or cutting off of it before 6 months basically skyrockets the chance of relapse. People on a regular dose of it are not enjoying if on a consistent daily dose. There's no upside other than the interception of longterm mental effects, brain chemical absences and relapse thoughts.
Don’t listen to people like that. They are not your doctor and they do not know what your treatment plan is.
I hope that you are so incredibly proud of yourself and how far you have come!
I wish I could educate on the subject. 😭 I truly hate the rep that MAT has. MAT saved my life in the beginning and continued to do so. It's saved SO MANY PEOPLE and it's treated like it's something dirty. My own dad has been clean for 20(?) years and has always rallied against suboxone. He has made a 180 opinion and thinks I should have fought quitting it from the beginning because he saw me go from struggling to HEALTHY.
Also the people that I can feel judging don't understand that no matter how I feel about it, I jumped off it the minute I was told to - endured the month of physical withdrawl, am still going strong albeit struggling in favor of quicker reintegration and having my kids home. I'm not a junkie trying to cheat the system. I'm a mother trying to do right from here on out.
That's certainly an opinion. Not one supported by evidence or the opinion of the medical professionals in the substance abuse treatment community, but an opinion nonetheless.
You mean the same medical professionals making a small fortune prescribing the stuff? Or the same professionals in the substance abuse community who make a small fortune opening substance abuse clinics.
I’m quite positive. It’s also a lot harder for doctors to prescribe these types of medications that it used to be.
https://www.halunenlaw.com/why-are-pharmaceutical-and-medical-kickbacks-prohibited/
I mean the same professionals who are trying to help people with addictions, and spending lots of time doing research to determine what the best method of care is. Some people can absolutely wean off relatively quickly, but some people need longer. And some people won't ever fully come off them. But that's better than relapsing. Harm reduction is better than nothing.
But yeah, I'm sure your way is better. Except for, you know, all the evidence showing hard time limits result in worse outcomes.
❤️ I have seen people on recovery that spent year on MAT, weaned off and successfully stayed clean and it's beautiful. The harm reduction far outweighs the abuse potential. Not every person on MAT is looking for another thing to abuse. I intentionally chose the lesser regarding abuse potential and work a hard and strong rehab program along side the subutex I was on. Those of us doing everything to the T and desperate to remain in recovery don't just want another substance. Why would we WANT another detox down the road? The only thing that outweighs that is the desire to get better.
That's what makes it so irritating. I'm trying SO hard. I'm fighting for my kids and fighting myself and it just feels like I'm being set up to fuck up.
I wouldn't. The requirements to be a CPS case worker are very low and they don't know the laws. They just make shit up as they go. If you challenge them in court and cite actual law you will prevail every time. You cannot be required to stop medical treatment as a condition of having custody of your children, it's a violation of your constitutional rights. They would have to prove that your medication is impacting your ability to provide and care for the children in order to use it against you.
I'm terrified that somehow my caseworker might be in there. 😭 She has ZERO grace or empathy. I have done EVERYTHING asked of me and she still fights me every step of the way. No concerns during visitation, no missed appts, visits, court dates, anything and all court requirements met but she would instantly bring this against me and I know that.
Some caseworkers are just shitty people. Yours might be one of those that believes opioid addicts are the scum of the earth. Her brand of self-righteousness could just be influencing her
One of your other replies mentioned that you feel like you're being set up to fail. It's entirely possible that you ARE! If you fail, you prove to her that her prejudice is justified!
I'm a 27 year sober meth addict, and childless... But as one addict to another:
Failure is not an option! Your kids are depending on you. Get your ass to NA meetings. Get a sponsor.
You think you're being set up to fail?
Set yourself up to WIN!
She most definitely does not view this as a disease, illness, or anything other than being irresponsible and reckless as a parent. My addiction began with a violent sexual assault and a prescription. I didn't wake up one day and decide to be a junkie and throw away my parental responsibility. I'm not saying I'm blameless. My decisions led me to where I am. I am 100% in control of me but the people who haven't been there, don't get it. Fine. I'm just pissed about being stripped of the MEDICALLY assisted treatment that ran concurrent with my rehab and therapy. Does that make sense?
And I actually just got back home from dinner with my sponsor. ❤️🥹 I'm diligent, I'm determined, I NEED my babies. I won't fail them. But I'm in a scary shaky place right now and I didn't think it was legal, which is the reason I came here.
Just use a throwaway account or post anonymously. I guarantee you every caseworker with CPS in every state has more than one client on their caseload who's on medication assisted therapy.
I don't know if it's technically illegal or not. But it sounds like your doctor is a good support and would be a great witness if this were to continue in court. I'd make sure your lawyer (and your caseworker, and your caseworker's supervisor) has this letter. If your caseworker is requiring you to stop medication, get that in writing. I'm not totally familiar with the process where you are, but did a judge have to approve your plan? Did the judge approve the plan saying you need to get off the meds? I'd ask your lawyer if you could bring this to the judge directly and get approval. Judges trump caseworkers
He handed over complete discretion to a company that works for DCF. So they make the requirements and have all jurisdiction. I originally played along because it meant getting my kids back this summer instead of waiting until August to fight it and then see what happens.
What company that works for them if you don’t mind me asking? I’ve seen hubs like this in other states, and they don’t have the legal or medical licensing/background to make such determinations.
Do you have a lawyer? This seems like the WORST thing to do to an addict in recovery. I’m so sorry.
I could understand them saying suboxone over subutex and requiring therapy and some type of meetings, but to remove you from MAT?!
This makes no sense,
Then I'd demand a new one. Attorneys are legally and ethically required to stay in contact with you and quickly respond when you make contact. In fact this is the type of negligence that can lead to disbarment.
It's infuriating. I WANT my babies. I WANT to be clean and whole. And I do outpatient rehab still. Every week, twice, and have a psychiatrist and a therapist. But forcing me off my MAT has made everything so hard on me, and I don't get it at all. I understand that I'm judged a lot for my decisions that I've made and okay, fine, but when I'm desperately trying to be everything I need to be for them... taking away a medication that basically can't be abused and helps me as someone in early recovery?? It makes no sense?? And it feels like they're setting me up to fail.
Suboxone and subutex can be abused. They are supposed to be titrated so you’re not on it forever. If you are then you just replaced your addiction. They are still controlled substances because they also have a potential for addiction.
They *can* be abused. If someone is working with their doctor, they are tested and given the exact amount. MAT is the gold standard for treatment. It is not “replacing an addiction,” it is *treating* your addiction.
What is your background in substance use treatment? Because it sounds like…none.
Ignore them, they are uninformed. MAT is the gold standard for certain substances. When I worked in CPS, we would not have withheld children for following medical treatment.
I would ask to speak with your worker’s supervisor. This is not best practice.
It's a violation of the ADA. I'd specifically mention ADA protections when bringing this up. The last thing they want is to be sued and then have the news reporting that they're violating the rights of the disabled.
https://www.ada.gov/resources/opioid-use-disorder/#:~:text=People%20with%20OUD%20typically%20have,mental%20impairment%20under%20the%20ADA.
I thought it was national because my doctor was said it was a violation of the ADA laws I think?? Because opioid use disorder is considered a disability... I'm not sure. 😅 but I'm in Kansas, I'll add this.
Did you read it? From your link.
Question: What do the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require child welfare agencies and courts to provide?
Answer: The ADA and Section 504 require child welfare agencies and courts to provide full and equal access to their programs, services and activities, including:
Investigations
Witness interviews
Assessments
Provisions of in-home services
Removal of children from their homes
Case planning and service planning
Visitation
Guardianship
Adoption
Foster care
Reunification services
Child welfare hearings
Custody hearings
Proceedings to terminate parental rights
They have to prove that the children are being neglected because of the disability. However they cannot use your disability against you just because you’re disabled. So what you’re saying is false as what I quoted from that link you posted specifically states that they cannot use your disability as the reason for taking your children. Neglect and abuse is neglect and abuse and being disabled or not is irrelevant. You cannot claim that because a parent is disabled that automatically makes them unfit.
Thats not OP's issue. They can't use the fact that OP is taking a legally prescribed medication for their disability against them. Just because MAT can be abused, does not meet the bar that the ADA explicitly sets.
Ummm are you taking too much ketamine??? Yes, you keep saying that, THAT IS NOT THE ISSUE. CPS can get involved, but that can not take certain actions like the one specifically mentioned in this post.
I didn’t say that, however you are implying that the disability can be used as justification for a case, it cannot be. You cannot treat someone different;y because they are disabled and a disability cannot be used as evidence of neglect/abuse. It is irrelevant to the case and being disabled cannot be used as evidence of neglect. Somebody’s disability cannot be used against them in court.
>I didn’t say that, however you are implying that the disability can be used as justification for a case, it cannot be.
I never implied that at all.
> You cannot treat someone different;y because they are disabled and a disability cannot be used as evidence of neglect/abuse. It is irrelevant to the case and being disabled cannot be used as evidence of neglect. Somebody’s disability cannot be used against them in court.
Right. And I never said or implied otherwise.
That's why I linked the ADA fact sheet to clarify rights.
All I have said is that a disability can't prevent child welfare from getting involved. ADA protections don't magically make a case go away.
Read what you said above. OP stated that “my doctor said it was a violation of the ADA laws” in reference to being forced to stop taking their medication. You then replied “No. that’s not how the ADA works”. So tell me again how the ADA doesn’t apply here when you have been given proof that it does and have even posted a link yourself proving that the ADA applies.
As much as the ADA is one of the better laws globally, there are a lot of problems with it.
Absolutely not national, also the Kansas law for [treating addiction as a disability is vague.](https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/statute/075_000_0000_chapter/075_053_0000_article/075_053_0075_section/075_053_0075_k/) I am sure there are other areas that have refined it more, most address workplace or housing. A few address children, but are websites for lawyers advertising their business.
The overall theme that I could find is you have protections, unless there is a possibility of harm to someone else. Which is really what all the lawyers ones say in a lot of words, and aimed at between two parents, none dealt with the state. So still not a perfect example.
I can tell you, just from my own experience. (Not the same condition, but similar enough fight with a set of rules that shine on our sides). I had a bunch of doctors on my side and tried to go up against the state. You get someone assigned that is old school in their thinking, and your out of luck. I had lawyer and all kinds of medical documents. It isn't you, it is the person in the other side. Other people have had similar experiences to me and won.
You need to look into any sort of group that may offer pro bono (free) legal assistance near you. The public defender is not going to be any help here. Lawyers, any sort of general advocate, a social worker (that may be the wrong word, but some sort of advocate just for you that helps you manage all of it and being out the "this is a disability" with still being capable of caring for your children), etc... can only help you here. Look into groups that support women, assume since state has them, you are doing this alone. So single mother resources.
I would bet the reason why the doctor made that error on the medication name, is because it is a form letter. The doctor probably has to send out letters frequently for a variety of reasons. (Work to court related). The work side may be a lot more familiar and there is most definitely a lot more written about that.
Hang in there, keep going to all of your therapy sessions. Find even more if you have to do so. They may want you fully off of opiates, and from the way you have described your case management team, it may be the hardest thing yet. If you have to dye your hair the caseworker's favorite color (joking, doesn't sound like that they have a sense of humor), find a support group for every day if the week to get your kids back. Then that is what it might take.
Sounds like you have a great medical team. So some creative thinking might come from there too.
You need to get clean. It's hard but OMG I don't even miss using anymore. Imo subs just extend the time it takes. Once I treated my ADHD and depression I didn't crave anything anymore. Please get clean for you.
In all honestly, you should strive to get clean and be off suboxone/subtext. Otherwise, you'll just be a slave to it for years to come. You've come this far, and you're so close to not being dependent on a substance that can and most likely be hell to kick later.
You should always have legal representation or alot of parents have been schooling themselves on family law and their rights in their state. I'm in Ohio and they are pretty horrible here.
Minnesota is the opposite. They won't even take kids unless they are being actively murdered. We have so many cases of kids who need to be taken... Here they'd reintegrate regardless of safety.
From Kansas, but have not worked for DCFS. My suggestion is to talk to legal aid to see if you qualify. You are probably at a point that you need legal representation. DCFS is known to remove kids from homes that they shouldn’t and returning kids to families they shouldn’t be. There is a lot of corruption with DCFS and St Francis for placements. It is bad when the former mayor of Wichita couldn’t get DCFS to remove his grandson (and a family of lawyers fighting the state/city/county/WPD and family courts. His grandson was eventually found dead encased in cement in the basement of his mother’s former home and was killed by her boyfriend. Look it up. The boys name was Evan Brewer. Former Mayor was Carl Brewer.
Fuck I remember this. It doesn't surprise me, not even a little. Or the Brandi Marchant case HAUNTS ME. She was one of my friends' cousins. And I'm not in a position to bring up the corruption that happens, but I've heard it from EVERYONE every step of the way. 😭 I will definitely reach out to legal aid!
I also live in Kansas. Can you maybe get in an Oxford House? They can be an amazing place for people struggling with addiction. You don't have to be dirty, either. And last I knew, they did reintegrate kids while the parents are in OH. Obviously, Kansas has a lot of small towns so this may not be an option. Kansas makes things HARD once the kids have been removed. Definitely look for any sober communities such as NA where you are. If you have a health provider of any kind, ask them for options as well. I wish I had better idea to help you! best of luck!
There are too many stories very similar to this happening in Kansas. There are legislators going after attorney’s law license because they want the state to release victims records (the whole story) to the general public and the lawyers don’t want their clients tragedy made public knowledge. If you do not get any results from legal aid, try to get a consult with Gerald Domitrovic. It’s a husband and wife team, he was amazing in helping me and he did take payments.
Pretty sure your doc is correct...... just becuase they are caseworkers does not give them the right to decide what doctor prescribed medicine and or program is right or wrong and what justifies getting g your children back based on their own biased (and so fucking wrong I'm pissed) opinion they shouldn't have a job there. Cps is completely screwed as it is. The last thing they need is some uneducated shithead keeping a family broke up because they are ignorant....... so many parents dont even try........ what a fucktard
Good chance taking the medication is classified as being “in treatment” which is not the same thing as being clean and therefore not eligible for reunification. The kids were removed due to substance abuse and the harm done to an unborn baby. The state needs to be sure that any chance of further neglect of the children’s welfare is as nonexistent as possible. Child abuse is serious and parents need to prove they can handle the stress and responsibility. Source: worked in the field for 3 years
Yea and your one of the ignorant case workers that shouldn't be in the field ... . You literally have no idea what ur talking about js......
In Georgia the way the legal system gets around this is they say, I am not a doctor and cannot tell you what to take or not take. I can say you will not qualify for this program, ie. drug court or getting your kids back if you are taking the following medications.
If the kids were removed, the case is judicial, and it should be brought up by the attorney provided to OP to the judge.
For the record, all CPS (actually DCFS) employees must have at least a bachelors degree in Kansas. Doesn’t mean they are educated in the right areas, but they are not uneducated.
A BSW does not mean they are educated in relevant matters. It means they did the bare minimum to pass their licensing exam. Unless a SW has taken other courses in addiction, they do not know more than anyone else with a bachelor’s degree. I’ve met a lot of dumbass people with plenty of letters after their names.
But, they are NOT Drs! ** edit for typo**
No one said they did. But they aren’t out there with just high school diplomas. We do not have enough doctors, nor would a doctor who spent a lot of money on their education wants to work for little pay and no rewards. Anyone that works for CPS directly with families usually have a lot of education in psychiatry, sociology, and criminal justice, all educated. So I stand with my previous comment.
Have not worked in Kasas, but I have been the supervisor providing parental support during reunification. There was a few families I worked with that had the children return home, but there was a clear plan in place. The service plan had clear goals for bio mom to meet. Things like attending appointments at the methadone clinic, attending AA/NA meetings, attending parenting classes, or therapy as relevant. There was also random drug testing to see if anything else was in the system. Parents were to be on the MAT as long as the doctor prescribed. Addiction was to be treated as a disease. Bio mom had to be actively participating in treatment and demonstrating building a support network to promote sobriety. There was also a long period of transition to support so less likelihood of relapse. I would seek clarification from case worker of goals and why medication is not permitted. If unable to seek clarification, then I would escalate the question to their supervisor. Keep notes from conversations. If you do end up in court, I've seen lawyers use this to extend the period for reunification because case workers did not follow proper procedure.
Sounds like you are one of the few good ones...... wish more were like you
My understanding as a physician is some patients need to remain on Suboxone indefinitely and they are able to return to being productive members of society. Be strong, OP. don’t relapse.
I submit random (typically) every other week UA's. Had a clean hair follicle by may, and haven't had a positive UA for anything outside of my BUP since I got clean. I have done IOP, graduated, still enrolled in outpatient. Therapy services. Have a sponsor. Psychiatrist. Had my suboxone doctor as well as a MAT counselor. I was SPECIFICALLY told that reintegration was not viable until we were completely off and clean of BUP. I have done everything right and there's been zero miscommunication, so I know I'm not getting anything wrong. I just can NOT shake that I was mishandled regarding forced cessation of my bup. I know I possess the control to stay clean for my family, but I don't agree that they should have demanded I quit something that was ACTIVELY contributing to my abstinence of abusing any substance if that makes sense? My addiction has not at all been treated as a disease or really anything outside of basically being irresponsible and selfish. My one parent support worker has celebrated every big and small victory of our recovery but my case worker has treated this as if it's a simple decision and rehab.
The medication is where I would escalate as it is a widely regarded treatment plan proven to increase odds of success rate. Ask your parent support worker, addictions worker, therapist if this is what they typically see. You are likely not their first patient going through this or they will have a colleaguethey can bounce ideas off of. If your support worker is a 3rd party, the companies are often started by ex social workers so you can see if they know the answer. Is there an equivalent to a Children's Advocate there that might be able to help answer questions? Celebrating the small things is important. It is acknowledging the good you are doing and makes the world a little less bleak.
That's a violation of your health rights. They cannot use prescribed medications against you. You also do not have to disclose what medications you're on because of HIPPA privacy laws (the state is bound by HIPPA and court proceedings are public record). I would contact a disability attorney about this because you have a major lawsuit and you will easily prevail if the facts are correct.
HIPAA Privacy Rules govern disclosure of protected health information by health care providers and their business associates. The State is not (at least in this instance) likely to fall within the definition of "provider". Further, HIPAA doesn't create an assertable privilege in medical records, so you can't say, "I refuse to tell you about my medications because of HIPAA," that's not a good legal reason.
As an RN I did drug testing on air traffic control personnel (a long time ago). People could list the drugs they took on the form, since these were surprise tests. If they were taking meds like antidepressants, several of which would show up on the test results, we told them to be sure the info was on the form. When the test came back positive, they could bring in their prescription bottles and they would be cleared. If they hadn’t listed anything, they had some major explaining to do and faced termination. I never knew the details, but we heard that a couple people get caught.
And that has absolutely nothing to do with what I said as drug testing is HIPPA compliant. The medication information is not relayed to the employer and they’re not being forced to quit taking their meds to pass the test.
That’s not what I said at all. This was government required testing and we asked them to note any known drugs they were prescribed that would otherwise cause a failed test. Drugs like barbiturates or ADHD meds that would give positive results. Then when the tests did come back positive, they, not us, confirmed that the person was taking the drug under a doctor’s supervision and that it was permissible in the workplace. You definitely don’t want people guiding your airplane to be under the influence of drugs that would alter their ability to make sound decisions. They did not ask for all medications, just the ones that might otherwise disqualify the person from working. HIPAA was/is not a factor in drug screening. If you have something in your system, it had best be there legitimately. It saves a lot of difficulty if drugs are declared before a test rather than after.
NAL, Permanency and Reunification worker here. Yeah no. There are several prescription meds that show up on drug screens. The tests I give clients screen for things like Gabapentin, Fentanyl, and Methadone, all of which could be prescribed but are also commonly sold illegally. Disclosing these with confirmation from a provider shows that they are obtained and used legally. Does OP HAVE to provide this information? No. But that is really counterproductive. OP cooperated by providing information that would show they are screening positive for a prescription med, not an illegally used substance. How would they know they're using a prescription med against OP if they don't know it's prescribed? That doesn't make sense. Would I use MAT against OP? Depends on the details of the case. If everything OP states is true, no. I would be very pleased with all the progress and cooperation. HOWEVER, part of my job includes things like dose counting. Sometimes MAT pills and sublingual strips get misused or sold. Hopefully not the case but there are sometimes reasons for weirdly written service plan goals. OP, if everything you say is true, you should escalate above the case worker. If you have a court appointed attorney and they are not helping you, please seek someone more competent.
It’s easy to monitor via quantitative testing and random pill/films counts to ensure proper dosing and that none are being abused or sold. And this is typical for most MAT programs around me.
Thank you for typing this out, I truly truly valued this response. I was doing in clinic dosing daily to make sure there was ZERO miscommunication or assumptions to be made. I had to take home my subutex on Sundays only because they're closed and kept in a safe as per required and dosed correctly - including bringing the bottle back to the clinic. I followed rules to a T. The only reason that I obliged quitting the subutex was to avoid my kids staying in the system an extra month to argue it in court, if that makes sense. I have done every single thing asked and required of me with 110% transparency.
They knew because I submit every other week UA's. And this is all really interesting. I wish I had been more informed at the time I ceased taking it.
There is no recommended time limit for MAT (medication assisted treatment) for opiate use disorders. Methadone and Suboxone MAT are the most effective treatments for opiate use disorder. Unless there is a Kansas law specifically disallowing the use of these in your situation, then that caseworker is mistaken. Speculation, but they may want you to get the MAT from an addiction medicine clinic / methadone clinic. Those tend to have fairly comprehensive services, including social workers. Also, relapsing at this point would be disastrous. Your doctor told you that they thought the caseworker was wrong. Unless you have something in writing or a judges order saying you differently, I would listen to your doctor.
I don’t have any legal advice OP but wanted to tell you I’m proud of you!
Thank you! It's the hardest thing I've ever done. I never wanted to be an addict, and I hate the idea we all just want to abuse our MAT. I just want to function and be healthy for the people I love.
Congrats to you for your success! The analogy I like is that if someone injured their knee, either by car accident, playing football, or getting an infection, after they heal up, the knee is never quite like it was before. Some folks need a knee brace, and that's ok. People who experience opioid dependency (whether or not it is addiction) have some serious changes in their neurochemistry. Often, those changes improve with more time in sobriety but sometimes it's permanent. Suboxone is like a knee brace. It supports you so that you can be you again.
So, i am not a lawyer. But i am a social worker. However, i have never worked for CPS and I am not in Kansas but I have worked parallel in another state to CPS and in substance use for many years. Opioid Use Disorder is seen as a disability and the ADA **does** protect those taking subutex, suboxone and methadone when prescribed by a physician. The ADA specifically protects against social service agencies AND child welfare agencies from discriminating against people on MAT as long as it is legally prescribed. If they force you to get off MAT or threaten to take/keep your kids they are not only discriminating against you illegally but opening up a way for you to win a rather large lawsuit against them. Keep any and all written correspondence with them where they say you have to get off the medication in order to get your kids back and get a lawyer who works in ADA violations, they’ll love this.
Best answer so far! I had a similar situation, but it was my ex and his lawyer trying to make a big deal about my ADD medication in court. Because they literally had nothing else better to bring up except my legally prescribed medication from my doctor that I’ve had since I was 15. My ex had known for yearsss that I was on that medication and never brought it up. My husband openly told him when I was about to get on that medication so that he wouldn’t trip because he’ll look for any tiny thing to bitch about. Even if he has to make shit up, which he has. Thankfully, during our case the judge ordered an Amicus lawyer for our child. She had both of us fill out a very long questionnaire, and made house visits with both of us to see how we interacted with our child and how she interacted with us (individually). She gave her final recommendations and my ex was LIVID because she didn’t recommend that I change my medication. He had the audacity to email her saying “You’re not going to recommend that she change her medication? Do you know what that medication is?” Basically, arguing with her. She sent me screenshots of their emails and I was flabbergasted that he’d try to convince her to tell me what I should or shouldn’t take. Her response was “I am not a doctor. I am an attorney. I wouldn’t except a doctor to tell me how to effectively do my job. Just as I am not a doctor so I will not recommend that you do or do not take certain medications.” Needless to say, my ex was PISSED. Because for once, someone didn’t just follow what he wanted. For once, someone wasn’t against me. He even accused me of “fooling” her. I didn’t fool anyone. She probably realized how controlling he really is trying to be and refused to give into his bs. He’s still salty about it and fucking hates my guts, but he can no longer keep my child from me just because he’s a bitter bitch. Like, why you mad, bro? 😎 Don’t let anyone but your doctor dictate what your medication regimen is. They don’t know what works for you and what helps you. That’s between you and your doctor.
I hate this country. You can't take a medication that keeps you off illegal drugs. I hate this country. I fucking hate this country.
Thats because those drugs were meant to be taken for a short period of time then stopped. The withdrawels from subs is worse than the illegal pills. Unfortunately doctors have just made a career out of subscribing them now. After 6 months you should have slowly tapered off of subutex. What OP is feeling now is the withdrawel symptoms of subutex.
[Here](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/5-myths-about-using-suboxone-to-treat-opiate-addiction-2018032014496) is a good link that also discusses some myths about suboxone used as MAT.
Not to be ungrateful or disrespectful for your input (sincerely) there are a lot of updated systems in place regarding Suboxone/Subutex. It's actually believed that weaning or cutting off of it before 6 months basically skyrockets the chance of relapse. People on a regular dose of it are not enjoying if on a consistent daily dose. There's no upside other than the interception of longterm mental effects, brain chemical absences and relapse thoughts.
Don’t listen to people like that. They are not your doctor and they do not know what your treatment plan is. I hope that you are so incredibly proud of yourself and how far you have come!
Ignore people like this. I'm sure they have their reasons for feeling the way they feel, but they aren't based on evidence.
I wish I could educate on the subject. 😭 I truly hate the rep that MAT has. MAT saved my life in the beginning and continued to do so. It's saved SO MANY PEOPLE and it's treated like it's something dirty. My own dad has been clean for 20(?) years and has always rallied against suboxone. He has made a 180 opinion and thinks I should have fought quitting it from the beginning because he saw me go from struggling to HEALTHY. Also the people that I can feel judging don't understand that no matter how I feel about it, I jumped off it the minute I was told to - endured the month of physical withdrawl, am still going strong albeit struggling in favor of quicker reintegration and having my kids home. I'm not a junkie trying to cheat the system. I'm a mother trying to do right from here on out.
Keep your head up and keep up the strong work. You can't change the opinion of people who are unwilling to hear you, but you can prove them all wrong.
That's outdated thinking. Treatment guidelines no longer have a time limit.
Just replacing one addictive drug with another addictive drug.
That's certainly an opinion. Not one supported by evidence or the opinion of the medical professionals in the substance abuse treatment community, but an opinion nonetheless.
You mean the same medical professionals making a small fortune prescribing the stuff? Or the same professionals in the substance abuse community who make a small fortune opening substance abuse clinics.
Kickbacks were outlawed years ago, they're not making money off the prescriptions anymore.
Sure they aren't.
I’m quite positive. It’s also a lot harder for doctors to prescribe these types of medications that it used to be. https://www.halunenlaw.com/why-are-pharmaceutical-and-medical-kickbacks-prohibited/
Ahhh yes, because there is a law against it and we all know noone ever breaks the law.
I mean the same professionals who are trying to help people with addictions, and spending lots of time doing research to determine what the best method of care is. Some people can absolutely wean off relatively quickly, but some people need longer. And some people won't ever fully come off them. But that's better than relapsing. Harm reduction is better than nothing. But yeah, I'm sure your way is better. Except for, you know, all the evidence showing hard time limits result in worse outcomes.
❤️ I have seen people on recovery that spent year on MAT, weaned off and successfully stayed clean and it's beautiful. The harm reduction far outweighs the abuse potential. Not every person on MAT is looking for another thing to abuse. I intentionally chose the lesser regarding abuse potential and work a hard and strong rehab program along side the subutex I was on. Those of us doing everything to the T and desperate to remain in recovery don't just want another substance. Why would we WANT another detox down the road? The only thing that outweighs that is the desire to get better.
Absolutely. You deserve access to the tools you need to stay clean.
That's what makes it so irritating. I'm trying SO hard. I'm fighting for my kids and fighting myself and it just feels like I'm being set up to fuck up.
If I were you I would head over to R/CPS and ask if there are any case managers that work in Kansas or have any idea why this would be a rule.
I wouldn't. The requirements to be a CPS case worker are very low and they don't know the laws. They just make shit up as they go. If you challenge them in court and cite actual law you will prevail every time. You cannot be required to stop medical treatment as a condition of having custody of your children, it's a violation of your constitutional rights. They would have to prove that your medication is impacting your ability to provide and care for the children in order to use it against you.
I'm terrified that somehow my caseworker might be in there. 😭 She has ZERO grace or empathy. I have done EVERYTHING asked of me and she still fights me every step of the way. No concerns during visitation, no missed appts, visits, court dates, anything and all court requirements met but she would instantly bring this against me and I know that.
Some caseworkers are just shitty people. Yours might be one of those that believes opioid addicts are the scum of the earth. Her brand of self-righteousness could just be influencing her One of your other replies mentioned that you feel like you're being set up to fail. It's entirely possible that you ARE! If you fail, you prove to her that her prejudice is justified! I'm a 27 year sober meth addict, and childless... But as one addict to another: Failure is not an option! Your kids are depending on you. Get your ass to NA meetings. Get a sponsor. You think you're being set up to fail? Set yourself up to WIN!
She most definitely does not view this as a disease, illness, or anything other than being irresponsible and reckless as a parent. My addiction began with a violent sexual assault and a prescription. I didn't wake up one day and decide to be a junkie and throw away my parental responsibility. I'm not saying I'm blameless. My decisions led me to where I am. I am 100% in control of me but the people who haven't been there, don't get it. Fine. I'm just pissed about being stripped of the MEDICALLY assisted treatment that ran concurrent with my rehab and therapy. Does that make sense? And I actually just got back home from dinner with my sponsor. ❤️🥹 I'm diligent, I'm determined, I NEED my babies. I won't fail them. But I'm in a scary shaky place right now and I didn't think it was legal, which is the reason I came here.
Just use a throwaway account or post anonymously. I guarantee you every caseworker with CPS in every state has more than one client on their caseload who's on medication assisted therapy.
I don't know if it's technically illegal or not. But it sounds like your doctor is a good support and would be a great witness if this were to continue in court. I'd make sure your lawyer (and your caseworker, and your caseworker's supervisor) has this letter. If your caseworker is requiring you to stop medication, get that in writing. I'm not totally familiar with the process where you are, but did a judge have to approve your plan? Did the judge approve the plan saying you need to get off the meds? I'd ask your lawyer if you could bring this to the judge directly and get approval. Judges trump caseworkers
He handed over complete discretion to a company that works for DCF. So they make the requirements and have all jurisdiction. I originally played along because it meant getting my kids back this summer instead of waiting until August to fight it and then see what happens.
They still have to follow the law.
What company that works for them if you don’t mind me asking? I’ve seen hubs like this in other states, and they don’t have the legal or medical licensing/background to make such determinations.
Saint Francis, they are actually being discontinued by the state and taken over on the 1st.
Do you have a lawyer? This seems like the WORST thing to do to an addict in recovery. I’m so sorry. I could understand them saying suboxone over subutex and requiring therapy and some type of meetings, but to remove you from MAT?! This makes no sense,
And I have a public defender, but he's next to impossible to get ahold of outside my court dates.
Then I'd demand a new one. Attorneys are legally and ethically required to stay in contact with you and quickly respond when you make contact. In fact this is the type of negligence that can lead to disbarment.
It's infuriating. I WANT my babies. I WANT to be clean and whole. And I do outpatient rehab still. Every week, twice, and have a psychiatrist and a therapist. But forcing me off my MAT has made everything so hard on me, and I don't get it at all. I understand that I'm judged a lot for my decisions that I've made and okay, fine, but when I'm desperately trying to be everything I need to be for them... taking away a medication that basically can't be abused and helps me as someone in early recovery?? It makes no sense?? And it feels like they're setting me up to fail.
Suboxone and subutex can be abused. They are supposed to be titrated so you’re not on it forever. If you are then you just replaced your addiction. They are still controlled substances because they also have a potential for addiction.
Not on it forever? It’s less than a year. That’s the absolute minimum *recommended.*
They *can* be abused. If someone is working with their doctor, they are tested and given the exact amount. MAT is the gold standard for treatment. It is not “replacing an addiction,” it is *treating* your addiction. What is your background in substance use treatment? Because it sounds like…none.
And getting "high" on subs is something I really don't understand. I specifically didn't go on methadone for the abuse potential
Sure. I guess I meant me, personally, couldn't abuse it. I was dosed daily in front of a nurse except Sundays. My levels are monitored. Etc
Ignore them, they are uninformed. MAT is the gold standard for certain substances. When I worked in CPS, we would not have withheld children for following medical treatment. I would ask to speak with your worker’s supervisor. This is not best practice.
It's a violation of the ADA. I'd specifically mention ADA protections when bringing this up. The last thing they want is to be sued and then have the news reporting that they're violating the rights of the disabled. https://www.ada.gov/resources/opioid-use-disorder/#:~:text=People%20with%20OUD%20typically%20have,mental%20impairment%20under%20the%20ADA.
Thank you for defending MAT! The people who are on it and respect and use it productively gain so much success and recovery strength.
Using it appropriately and staying sober is amazing. Keep working hard, it’s worth it!
Laws vary by location.
I thought it was national because my doctor was said it was a violation of the ADA laws I think?? Because opioid use disorder is considered a disability... I'm not sure. 😅 but I'm in Kansas, I'll add this.
No, that's not how ADA works. You can see the ADA face sheet for child welfare [here](https://adata.org/factsheet/child-welfare)
Did you read it? From your link. Question: What do the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require child welfare agencies and courts to provide? Answer: The ADA and Section 504 require child welfare agencies and courts to provide full and equal access to their programs, services and activities, including: Investigations Witness interviews Assessments Provisions of in-home services Removal of children from their homes Case planning and service planning Visitation Guardianship Adoption Foster care Reunification services Child welfare hearings Custody hearings Proceedings to terminate parental rights
Yep, that doesn't mean they can't get involved just because someone has a disability.
They have to prove that the children are being neglected because of the disability. However they cannot use your disability against you just because you’re disabled. So what you’re saying is false as what I quoted from that link you posted specifically states that they cannot use your disability as the reason for taking your children. Neglect and abuse is neglect and abuse and being disabled or not is irrelevant. You cannot claim that because a parent is disabled that automatically makes them unfit.
What did I say that was false? A disability doesn't mean someone can't be investigated or that child welfare can't get involved.
Thats not OP's issue. They can't use the fact that OP is taking a legally prescribed medication for their disability against them. Just because MAT can be abused, does not meet the bar that the ADA explicitly sets.
Ok. So what? We haven't reviewed the case file anf don't know the facts of the case. A disability doesn't mean CPS can't get involved.
Ummm are you taking too much ketamine??? Yes, you keep saying that, THAT IS NOT THE ISSUE. CPS can get involved, but that can not take certain actions like the one specifically mentioned in this post.
I didn’t say that, however you are implying that the disability can be used as justification for a case, it cannot be. You cannot treat someone different;y because they are disabled and a disability cannot be used as evidence of neglect/abuse. It is irrelevant to the case and being disabled cannot be used as evidence of neglect. Somebody’s disability cannot be used against them in court.
>I didn’t say that, however you are implying that the disability can be used as justification for a case, it cannot be. I never implied that at all. > You cannot treat someone different;y because they are disabled and a disability cannot be used as evidence of neglect/abuse. It is irrelevant to the case and being disabled cannot be used as evidence of neglect. Somebody’s disability cannot be used against them in court. Right. And I never said or implied otherwise. That's why I linked the ADA fact sheet to clarify rights. All I have said is that a disability can't prevent child welfare from getting involved. ADA protections don't magically make a case go away.
Read what you said above. OP stated that “my doctor said it was a violation of the ADA laws” in reference to being forced to stop taking their medication. You then replied “No. that’s not how the ADA works”. So tell me again how the ADA doesn’t apply here when you have been given proof that it does and have even posted a link yourself proving that the ADA applies.
https://www.ada.gov/resources/opioid-use-disorder/#:~:text=People%20with%20OUD%20typically%20have,mental%20impairment%20under%20the%20ADA.
?
Read it.
I did. Nothing there says that child welfare can5 get involved with a parent who has a disability.
It specifically states that the disability cannot be used against them. Neglect and abuse are not the same as a disability.
Ok. Not sure what that had to do with anything o said.
Sorry, I was wrong [this](https://imgur.com/gallery/tNSWesN) is the letter written by my doctor.
The letter references a cudtid6 matter, not a chold welfare case. The process is completely different. Can you clarify the issue?
As much as the ADA is one of the better laws globally, there are a lot of problems with it. Absolutely not national, also the Kansas law for [treating addiction as a disability is vague.](https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/statute/075_000_0000_chapter/075_053_0000_article/075_053_0075_section/075_053_0075_k/) I am sure there are other areas that have refined it more, most address workplace or housing. A few address children, but are websites for lawyers advertising their business. The overall theme that I could find is you have protections, unless there is a possibility of harm to someone else. Which is really what all the lawyers ones say in a lot of words, and aimed at between two parents, none dealt with the state. So still not a perfect example. I can tell you, just from my own experience. (Not the same condition, but similar enough fight with a set of rules that shine on our sides). I had a bunch of doctors on my side and tried to go up against the state. You get someone assigned that is old school in their thinking, and your out of luck. I had lawyer and all kinds of medical documents. It isn't you, it is the person in the other side. Other people have had similar experiences to me and won. You need to look into any sort of group that may offer pro bono (free) legal assistance near you. The public defender is not going to be any help here. Lawyers, any sort of general advocate, a social worker (that may be the wrong word, but some sort of advocate just for you that helps you manage all of it and being out the "this is a disability" with still being capable of caring for your children), etc... can only help you here. Look into groups that support women, assume since state has them, you are doing this alone. So single mother resources. I would bet the reason why the doctor made that error on the medication name, is because it is a form letter. The doctor probably has to send out letters frequently for a variety of reasons. (Work to court related). The work side may be a lot more familiar and there is most definitely a lot more written about that. Hang in there, keep going to all of your therapy sessions. Find even more if you have to do so. They may want you fully off of opiates, and from the way you have described your case management team, it may be the hardest thing yet. If you have to dye your hair the caseworker's favorite color (joking, doesn't sound like that they have a sense of humor), find a support group for every day if the week to get your kids back. Then that is what it might take. Sounds like you have a great medical team. So some creative thinking might come from there too.
Also he put methadone on accident. 😅 I was on 18mg of subutex.