APhA launches opioid resource center
WASHINGTON - In its ongoing work to curb the prescription drug and opioid abuse epidemic, the American Pharmacists Association announced Tuesday the launch of a resource center to serve as a one-stop shop for pharmacists interested in learning more about opioid use, abuse and misuse. The resource center will help educate pharmacists by identifying learning opportunities, highlighting clinical and patient resources and identifying tools that are useful when working with patients who are prescribed opioids.
“APhA is committed to combating the opioid crisis in America but acknowledges the importance of patients’ legitimate access to opioids,” stated Jenna Ventresca, APhA associate director, health policy and site administrator for the resource center. “We do this through thought leadership on shaping public policy and by identifying tools to help foster the pharmacist-patient relationship.”
In 2015, APhA pledged to launch the resource center as part of the Obama Administration’s effort to curb the prescription drug and heroin crisis.
“The resource center has been developed to provide a balanced approach to pain management,” Ventresca said. “APhA is keenly aware that millions of patients have legitimate reasons to have access to controlled substances. The resource center helps empower pharmacists to take steps to minimize misuse and abuse.”
Among the resources available to pharmacists include:
Training and webinars that educate viewers about abuse deterrent formulations, care of patients with addiction and the role of pharmacy in opioid therapeutics;
A compilation of guidelines and resources to help pharmacist improve their decision making process including information on clinical guidelines for the use of buprenorphine, warning signs related to prescribing and dispensing controlled substances and medicines recommended for disposal by flushing;
Engagement opportunities where pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can connect with other health care professionals through conferences, mentoring programs and special interest groups;
Interactive tools and recent publications that can be used regularly or referenced to help pharmacists treat patients using opioids. Among the tools visitors will find are a buprenorphine treatment physician locator and a Medicare Part D opioid mapping tool; and
Federal and state resources related to opioids such as the White House's Office of National Drug Policy strategy, pharmacist efforts to combat opioid abuse and misuse and state prescription drug monitoring programs.
Visitors will also find a section with articles and research discussing trends in prescription drug abuse, effectiveness and risks of opioid treatment, abuse-deterrent formulations and buprenorphine.