i_opioidsubstance_2018a_2018-08-22t09:41:55z3 Hearing Summary

Gina Moore, Colorado Pharmacist Society (CPS), presented on CPS's proposals to further address opioid misuse in Colorado and provided handout to the committee [Attachment E] .  She discussed CPS's current sunrise application for pharmacy technician registration and the role some pharmacy technicians have in diverting controlled substances.

Ms. Moore continued her presentation and discussed e-prescribing as a tool to reduce prescription forgeries.  Committee discussion followed about pharmacy technicians.  

Dr. Don Stader, Colorado Medical Society (CMS), discussed CMS's recommendations to address the opioid crisis.  He told the committee that CMS would like to increase access to care and decrease the use of opioids.  He discussed the barriers that keep patients from selecting alternatives to opioids for the treatment of pain.  He discussed ensuring that insurance coverage works for opioid addicted patients, increasing the health care workforce, and issues around e-prescribing.  Dr. Stader discussed issues facing practitioners when providing patients with information about drugs being prescribed.  Committee discussion about drug pricing followed.  

Dr. Stader responded to questions and discussed the use of both prescription and illicit opioids, treating opioid use disorders more effectively, and the cost of opioids compared to other pain treatments.  Committee discussion and questions continued.  

Discussion continued about patients who are mislabeled as opioid seekers, e-prescribing issues, issues around the use of the PDMP, and continuing education on opioid prescribing and treatment.