Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts will require physicians to gain permission from the insurer before writing new prescriptions for 30 days' worth of painkillers for patients, according to a Washington Post report.
Officials say the policy, which begins July 1, will prevent physicians from prescribing 60 days of a painkiller for a minor problem such as a sprained ankle. Patients with chronic conditions or terminal illnesses will continue to receive opioid painkillers without interruption, the report said.
By limiting prescriptions, BCBS said it hopes to reduce the risk of addiction and minimize the number of people, particularly juveniles, who obtain painkillers without a prescription. The insurer is believed to be the first in the nation to adopt such an approach for physicians treating patients for pain, the report said.
Mallinckrodt and Zogenix to Collaborate on Migraine Treatment
50 Pain Management Physician Medical Directors
Officials say the policy, which begins July 1, will prevent physicians from prescribing 60 days of a painkiller for a minor problem such as a sprained ankle. Patients with chronic conditions or terminal illnesses will continue to receive opioid painkillers without interruption, the report said.
By limiting prescriptions, BCBS said it hopes to reduce the risk of addiction and minimize the number of people, particularly juveniles, who obtain painkillers without a prescription. The insurer is believed to be the first in the nation to adopt such an approach for physicians treating patients for pain, the report said.
Related Articles on Pain Management:
Post-Operative Pain Drug Yields Positive Trial ResultsMallinckrodt and Zogenix to Collaborate on Migraine Treatment
50 Pain Management Physician Medical Directors