PS2 – Opioid Crisis and Legislation
Disturbingly, the opioid crisis continues. Deaths from prescription opioid painkillers have reached epidemic levels in the past decade. Opioid analgesics are now responsible for more deaths than the number of deaths from suicide, motor vehicle crashes, cocaine and heroin overdoses combined. Prescription monitoring and nurse case managers can combat the problem. Improving the way prescription painkillers are prescribed and enduring proper case manager involvement can reduce the number of people who misuse, abuse or overdose from these powerful drugs, while making sure patients have access to safe, effective treatment. This session will also take a closer look at the current national legislative policies and initiatives designed to reduce the negative trend of this epidemic including prescribing guidelines, and the newest innovations from CMS and the Veteran’s Administration.
Objectives:
1. Recall statistical data of opioid abuse
2. Describe the issues impacting Opioid usages and misuse
3. List the challenges of opioid usage and case management intervention
4. Summarize current Legislature discussions and actions
5. Define guidelines for opioid use disorder treatment and treatment programs
6. Define changes in pain management
7. List the newest innovations for opioid treatment in specific populations