Dr. Feelgood: Dealer or Healer

Gr 10 Up—While the events depicted in this documentary happened 20 years ago, the content, topics, and ethical dilemmas involved are probably as pertinent, if not more so, today. Deaths from opiates (legal and illegal) have surpassed those from auto accidents in some states, despite money directed at fighting the problem as well as restrictions on prescriptions and access. This documentary takes viewers back in time to when William Hurwitz, a Virginia physician, was one of the few doctors committed to treating chronic pain with extremely high doses of Oxycontin and other synthetic opioids. In the 2000s, Hurwitz faced legal consequences for his actions, including jail time. Extensive interviews with former patients, some of whom revere him and others of whom despise him, are interspersed with conversations with Hurwitz, his wife, and his daughter as well as those with law enforcement officials and his defense attorneys. Taken together, they portray a complex situation in a fairly evenhanded way. While it is easy to conclude that Hurwitz was arrogant and opinionated, there are also moments when viewers can sympathize with him. This is a very balanced look at a man who had strong beliefs, so strong that they may have clouded his judgment.