Pain meds - more restrictions now than previous?

I have heard this has been an issue for many years. I don't have any facts or details. Just the general idea (from reliable sources) that doctors who prescribe a lot of narcotics may be investigated by state or federal agencies.

It makes no differences to the bureaucracy that these doctors are seeing legitimate patients with chronic long term pain issues who sure may be "addicted" but who at the same time need these narcotics for real pain.

I am sure there are a few rare doctors who abuse the system, give out narcotic prescriptions like candy, then ruin it for legitimate doctors and legitimate patients.

There are a number of published articles that detail the opiate aversion that some HCPs demonstrate. The studies show that reluctance, misunderstanding, and ignorance of prescribing principles adversely affect the pain management of a variety of patients...even in oncology where pain is anticipated.