The report found 4.8 percent of Americans had used prescription painkillers for non-medical reasons. Some physicians have taken to reviewing each patient’s medical and prescription drug records, requesting an x-ray to assess the source of pain and giving a urine drug screen to identify illegal substances in order to prevent over-prescription and abuse.
Related Articles on Prescription Drugs Abuse:
American Pain Society Supports CDC’s Attention to Prescription Drug Misuse
Bob Twillman Calls for End to Opioid Overdose Epidemic
Native American and Mixed-Race Youth More Likely to Abuse Controlled Substances
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.