Some Colorado physicians are experimenting with new ways to curb prescription drug overdose in response to a steadily increasing addiction rate in the state, according to a Denver Post report.
Kaiser Permanente in Castle Rock won't dispense opioids on Mondays or Fridays, for example, upon realizing that some patients exploited the busiest prescription-filling days to obtain extra pills. The physicians instead maintain a log of legitimate upcoming painkiller refills to avoid confusion if a patient's physician is out of the office when they seek refills.
Physicians remain firm in requiring signed agreements with opioid patients, including the right to administer random urine tests. Pain interviews have also become more specific; physicians place a chart in every exam room where patients can rate their current condition on a 1-to-10 scale of pain.
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Kaiser Permanente in Castle Rock won't dispense opioids on Mondays or Fridays, for example, upon realizing that some patients exploited the busiest prescription-filling days to obtain extra pills. The physicians instead maintain a log of legitimate upcoming painkiller refills to avoid confusion if a patient's physician is out of the office when they seek refills.
Physicians remain firm in requiring signed agreements with opioid patients, including the right to administer random urine tests. Pain interviews have also become more specific; physicians place a chart in every exam room where patients can rate their current condition on a 1-to-10 scale of pain.
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