This is the first news story about a topic of importance to everyone who uses -- or may in the future use -- controlled medications. The reporter went directly to the news sources for context. The piece is very clearly written, too.

The idea of artificial intelligence overriding human intellect and determining the fate of a person's healthcare is insane. Treatment of a chronically ill person should not be left in the hands of a device. This article makes It clear that NarxCare is misbranded and cannot replace human judgment. It seems to me that this protocol is designed to assist the insurance companies in controlling their bottom-line while doctors and their patients suffer, and the Government's use of it as a tool to inform their work is scary. NarxCare is not a solution to the drug crisis, and its use is an endangerment to doctors and the well-being of the patients they serve. When doctors are no longer able to care for their patients based upon their intellect and observation they too are subject to extinction like toll booth workers. What is NarxCare's solution when a patient is denied treatment - eat more green peas and carrots? Scotty beam me up!