The Authors’ Own Words: We ask authors to describe their impressions regarding the implications of their accepted work, how their findings will change practice, and what is noteworthy about the work.
What Do Physicians Want to Know About Opioid Prescribing? A Qualitative Analysis of Their Questions
Phoebe A. Cushman, MD; Jane M. Liebschutz, MD, MPH; Joseph G. Hodgkin, BA; Christopher W. Shanahan, MD, MPH; Julie L. White, MS; Ilana Hardesty, BA; & Daniel P. Alford, MD, MPH
Substance Abuse Vol. 38, Iss. 2, 2017
“The primary contribution of this study is a qualitative analysis of how well the FDA’s extended release/long acting (ER/LA) opioid analgesic Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) curricular Blueprint addresses the concerns of opioid prescribers who attended a REMS training. The study found that providers are eager to learn not only the mechanics of safe opioid prescribing for chronic pain (e.g. risk assessments, patient-provider agreements), but also how to have challenging discussions with patients about opioids while maintaining a positive patient-provider relationship. Other important findings included prescribers’ requests for information on safe alternatives to opioids and frustration with the lack of access to pain specialists. A major implication of our study is that all providers need improved instruction in comprehensive pain management across their careers. The FDA curricular Blueprint is continually being revised and updated; we believe that future updates should address providers’ additional concerns.”
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