AAPCC Supports Initiatives Targeting Prescription Opioid Meds
The American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) and the experts at America’s 55 poison centers applaud the efforts of the United States Senate focused on the prevention of opioid addiction, according to Stephen T. Kaminski, JD, AAPCC CEO and executive director.
The Safe Prescribing of Controlled Substances Act, introduced by Senator Edward J. Markey on May 20, 2015, would require prescribers of opioid pain medications and other controlled substances to undergo mandatory training on safe prescribing practices and the identification of possible substance abuse disorders. Prescribers applying for a Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) license would be required to complete mandatory education focusing on: best practices for pain management and alternative non-opioid therapies for pain; methods for diagnosing and treating a substance use disorder; linking patients to evidence based treatment for substance use disorders; and tools to manage adherence and diversion of controlled substances.