For medical care providers who see patients and write prescriptions for pain management, the opioid epidemic is at the forefront of the practice of medicine—particularly here in Humboldt County.  Recent opioid overdose data suggests an estimated 26 opioid overdose deaths in Humboldt County in 2016.  That’s one of the highest rates in California (per 100,000 residents), with the majority of deaths occurring between those aged 35 to 39 years old. 
 
California providers should know that all opioid overdose related deaths are now reported to the Medical Board of California (“MBC”) for automatic investigation.  Licensees are required to provide narrative responses to the MBC, as well as medical records.  Before providers respond to such an inquiry, it is imperative that the provider seek legal advice from attorneys experienced in both criminal law and licensing matters.  Providers should be aware that they risk incriminating themselves in certain circumstances, and they should be fully informed before they waive any right to invoke their constitutional protections.