Safe Opioid Prescribing for Physicians and Dentists (National Edition)- Activity ID 3227

Opioids play an important role in pain management—both in the acute and the chronic setting, but a variety of causes have contributed to an opioid-related epidemic leading to addiction and death. There has also been substantial misuse of opioids by prescription and by diversion. With the spotlight on the epidemic guidelines, regulations, studies, and solutions are emerging, including recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that can address the epidemic and allow for effective and appropriate use of these drugs. This enduring activity meets controlled substances requirements for a national audience (not state-specific).

This program includes a post-test and evaluation. A score of 80% must be obtained to pass the post-test. The post-test and evaluation must be completed to receive credit and a certificate.

Learning Objectives apply to all professions.

1. Consider if alternative medications can be effective in managing a patient’s pain before prescribing opioids medications.
2. Check a prescription data base in my state before prescribing opioids.
3. Establish a plan with each patient when initiating a new prescription for chronic or long-term opioids.
4. Evaluate each patient's understanding of the risks of taking opioids, how and why to keep these drugs safe and avoid diversion, and appropriate disposal for unused pills.
5. Educate colleagues and office staff about the root causes associated with prescribing opioids that were identified in an analysis of malpractice lawsuits.
6. Limit the number and minimize the dosage when opioids are indicated for treating acute pain.
7. Apply the CDC's Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain in my practice.

The Doctors Company is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical educational activities for physicians. The Doctors Company designates this activity for a maximum of 2.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 

The Doctors Company is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to ADA CERP at ADA.org/CERP. The Doctors Company designates this activity for a maximum of 2.5 continuing education credit. 

Disclaimer 
The information and guidelines contained in this activity are generalized and may not apply to all practice situations. We recommend that legal advice be obtained from a qualified attorney for specific application to your practice. The information is intended for educational purposes and should be used as a reference guide only. 

State Requirements for Continuing Education 
Please see your state licensing organization for continuing education requirements for your profession and specialty. 

Accessibility 
The Doctors Company is committed to ensuring that its programs, services, goods, and facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities as specified under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act of 2008. If you have needs that require special accommodation, please contact the program coordinator or our CPE Coordinator. 

Mitigation of Relevant Financial Relationships