A New York Times editorial this week discussed the importance of implementing a statewide drug database to curb "doctor shopping" and the overfilling of opioids prescriptions.
"We are encouraged that Gov. Andrew Cuomo and legislative leaders appear to be nearing a deal on legislation implementing [the] idea for a real-time online database to keep track of prescriptions for controlled substances that are frequently abused," the editorial said.
Under the proposed legislation, New York physicians would be required to use the database to review a patient's prescription history before prescribing and to report all new prescriptions issued. Pharmacists would be required to confirm the patient's prescription and drug history before dispensing the new prescription.
"New York's current program calls only for pharmacies to report the dispensing of controlled substances at least once every 45 days. It has no effective mechanism for the state, doctors or pharmacists to track prescriptions or verify their validity," the editorial said.
PAP Injections More Effective Than Acupuncture for Pain Relief, Study Says
3 Pain Specialists on Shaping Pain Management Healthcare Policy
"We are encouraged that Gov. Andrew Cuomo and legislative leaders appear to be nearing a deal on legislation implementing [the] idea for a real-time online database to keep track of prescriptions for controlled substances that are frequently abused," the editorial said.
Under the proposed legislation, New York physicians would be required to use the database to review a patient's prescription history before prescribing and to report all new prescriptions issued. Pharmacists would be required to confirm the patient's prescription and drug history before dispensing the new prescription.
"New York's current program calls only for pharmacies to report the dispensing of controlled substances at least once every 45 days. It has no effective mechanism for the state, doctors or pharmacists to track prescriptions or verify their validity," the editorial said.
Related Articles on Pain Management:
New System Improves Epidural Analgesia for Post-Op Pain Management PatientsPAP Injections More Effective Than Acupuncture for Pain Relief, Study Says
3 Pain Specialists on Shaping Pain Management Healthcare Policy