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Hohmann L, Diggs K, Valle-Ramos G, Richardson J, Phillippe H, Correia C, Marlowe K, Fox BI. A cross-sectional survey exploring organizational readiness to implement community pharmacy-based opioid counseling and naloxone services in rural versus urban settings in Alabama. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2024; 16:100503. [PMID: 39308554 PMCID: PMC11416552 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2024.100503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Rural US regions experience lower naloxone dispensing rates compared to urban counterparts, particularly in Alabama. In light of this, strategies to enhance opioid counseling and naloxone services (OCN) in rural community pharmacies are critical. However, organizational readiness to implement OCN in rural versus urban contexts where resource networks may differ is not well understood. Objectives The purpose of this study was to explore organizational readiness and identify factors associated with implementation of OCN in rural versus urban Alabama community pharmacies. Methods Alabama community pharmacists and technicians were recruited to participate in an anonymous online cross-sectional survey via email. The survey instrument was adapted from the Organizational Readiness to Change Assessment (ORCA). Primary outcome measures included 3 overarching ORCA domains (Evidence, Context, and Facilitation) with 19 subscales regarding OCN implementation readiness, measured via 5-point Likert-type scales (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree). Secondarily, pharmacy OCN implementation status (implementer, non-implementer, or in-development) was measured via multiple-choice (1-item). Differences in mean domain and subscale scores between rural and urban pharmacies were evaluated using Mann-Whitney U tests and influential factors affecting OCN implementation status were assessed via logistic regression (alpha = 0.05). Results Of 171 respondents, the majority were pharmacists (78.6 %) in urban locations (57.1 %). Mean[SD] clinical experience evidence (Evidence) (3.98[0.69] vs 3.74[0.71]; p = 0.029), staff culture (Context) (4.04[0.66] vs 3.85[0.76]; p = 0.047), service measurement goals (Context) (3.92[0.77] vs 3.66[0.79]; p = 0.034), and senior management characteristics (Facilitation) (3.87[0.72] vs 3.71[0.66]; p = 0.045) subscales were higher in urban versus rural pharmacies. Notably, 66.7 % of pharmacies were current OCN implementers, and pharmacies with higher ORCA context domain scores had 3.230 greater odds of implementing or being in the process of developing OCN (95 % CI = 1.116-9.350; p = 0.031). Conclusion Organizational readiness to implement OCN was higher among urban versus rural pharmacies in terms of perceived strength of clinical evidence, staff culture, service measurement goals, and senior management characteristics. Future research may leverage key contextual factors to enhance OCN implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Hohmann
- Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, 1330 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Kavon Diggs
- Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, 1330 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Giovanna Valle-Ramos
- Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, 1330 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Jessica Richardson
- Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, 1330 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Haley Phillippe
- Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, 1330 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Chris Correia
- Auburn University College of Liberal Arts, Department of Psychological Sciences, 221 Cary Hall, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Karen Marlowe
- Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, 1330 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Brent I. Fox
- Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, 4306 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
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Salwan A, Mathis SM, Brooks B, Hagemeier NE, Tudiver F, Foster KN, Alamian A, Pack RP. A theoretical explanation of naloxone provision among primary care physicians and community pharmacists in Tennessee. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024; 20:978-985. [PMID: 38981793 PMCID: PMC11365772 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing access to naloxone reduces opioid-related morbidity and mortality. Primary care and community pharmacy settings are critical access points, yet limited theoretical research has examined naloxone prescribing and dispensing behaviors. OBJECTIVES To determine if the theory of planned behavior (TPB) combined with theoretical constructs from communication science explains intentions to co-prescribe and discuss co-dispensing naloxone among primary care physicians and community pharmacists, respectively. METHODS This cross-sectional study surveyed cohorts of licensed primary care physicians and community pharmacists in Tennessee in 2017. Intentions were measured using profession-specific case vignettes, whereby they were asked given 10 similar patients, how many times (0-10) would they co-prescribe or discuss co-dispensing naloxone. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were used. RESULTS The analytic sample included 295 physicians (response rate = 15.6 %) and 423 pharmacists (response rate = 19.4 %). Approximately 65 % of physicians reported never intending to co-prescribe naloxone (0 out of 10 patients), while 47 % of pharmacists reported never intending to discuss co-dispensing. All TPB constructs-attitudes (AOR = 1.32, CI = 1.16-1.50), subjective norms (AOR = 1.17, CI = 1.06-1.30), and perceived behavioral control (AOR 1.16, CI = 1.02-1.33)-were associated with an increased likelihood of pharmacists always (versus never) discussing co-dispensing. Similarly, two TPB constructs-attitudes (AOR = 1.41, CI = 1.19-1.68) and subjective norms (AOR = 1.22, CI = 1.08-1.39)-were associated with an increased likelihood of physicians always co-prescribing. Among physicians only, one communication construct-self-perceived communication competence (AOR = 1.19, CI = 1.01-1.41)-was associated with an increased likelihood of always co-prescribing. CONCLUSION Findings support the value of theory, particularly TPB, in explaining primary care physician intentions to co-prescribe and community pharmacist intentions to discuss co-dispensing naloxone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Salwan
- Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.
| | - Stephanie M Mathis
- College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Bill Brooks
- College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Nicholas E Hagemeier
- Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Fred Tudiver
- Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Kelly N Foster
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Arsham Alamian
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Robert P Pack
- College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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Ghobadi A, Hanna M, Tovar S, Do DH, Duan L, Lee M, Samuels EA, Davis CS, Sharp AL. Impact of California's naloxone co-prescription law on emergency department visits, 30-day mortality, and prescription patterns. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2024; 5:e13236. [PMID: 39430661 PMCID: PMC11486842 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.13236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Opioid overdose is a public health epidemic adversely impacting individuals and communities. To combat this, California passed a law mandating that prescribers offer a naloxone prescription in certain circumstances. Our objective was to evaluate associations with California's naloxone prescription mandate and emergency department (ED) overdose visits/hospitalizations, opioid and naloxone prescribing, and 30-day mortality. Methods This retrospective cohort study included data from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2019, and included all Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) members aged >10 years across 15 KPSC EDs. Exposure was defined as presentation to the ED within the study period. The primary outcome was ED visits for opioid overdose pre- and post-implementation of California's naloxone prescription mandate. Results A total of 1.1 million ED visits (534K pre/576K post) were included in the study population. ED opioid overdose visits were 344 (6.4/10,000) pre-policy and 351 (6.1/10,000) post-policy implementation, while non-opioid overdose visits were 309 (5.8/10,000) pre-implementation and 411 (7.1/10,000) post-implementation. The unadjusted rate of visits with opioid prescriptions decreased significantly (14.9% pre to 13.5% post) after implementation. ED naloxone prescriptions increased substantially (104 pre vs. 6031 post). Primary adjusted interrupted time series analysis found no statistical difference between monthly opioid overdose visits pre versus post (odds ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98‒1.07). Difference-in-differences analysis revealed no significant changes in hospitalization (coefficient [CE] = ‒0.05, 95% CI = ‒0.11 to 0.02) or 30-day mortality (CE = ‒0.01, 95% CI = ‒0.03 to 0.01). Conclusion This study revealed that the implementation of California's naloxone prescription mandate was associated with significantly increased naloxone prescribing and decreased opioid prescribing, but no significant change in ED opioid overdose visits, hospitalizations, or 30-day mortality. This indicates that increasing naloxone prescribing alone may not be sufficient to lower opioid overdose rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ghobadi
- Department of Clinical ScienceKaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of MedicineAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
- Kaiser Permanente Southern CaliforniaAnaheim Medical CenterAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
| | - Michael Hanna
- Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of MedicineAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
| | - Stephanie Tovar
- Department of Research & EvaluationKaiser Permanente Southern CaliforniaAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
| | - Duy H. Do
- Department of Research & EvaluationKaiser Permanente Southern CaliforniaAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lewei Duan
- Department of Research & EvaluationKaiser Permanente Southern CaliforniaAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ming‐Sum Lee
- Department of CardiologyKaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Samuels
- Department of Emergency MedicineAlpert Medical School of Brown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Corey S. Davis
- Department of Population HealthNYU Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Adam L. Sharp
- Department of Clinical ScienceKaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of MedicineAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Research & EvaluationKaiser Permanente Southern CaliforniaAnaheimCaliforniaUSA
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Hadland SE, Agarwal R, Raman SR, Smith MJ, Bryl A, Michel J, Kelley-Quon LI, Raval MV, Renny MH, Larson-Steckler B, Wexelblatt S, Wilder RT, Flinn SK. Opioid Prescribing for Acute Pain Management in Children and Adolescents in Outpatient Settings: Clinical Practice Guideline. Pediatrics 2024:e2024068752. [PMID: 39344439 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2024-068752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
This is the first clinical practice guideline (CPG) from the American Academy of Pediatrics outlining evidence-based approaches to safely prescribing opioids for acute pain in outpatient settings. The central goal is to aid clinicians in understanding when opioids may be indicated to treat acute pain in children and adolescents and how to minimize risks (including opioid use disorder, poisoning, and overdose). The document also seeks to alleviate disparate pain treatment of Black, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Native children and adolescents, who receive pain management that is less adequate and less timely than that provided to white individuals. There may also be disparities in pain treatment based on language, socioeconomic status, geographic location, and other factors, which are discussed. The document recommends that clinicians treat acute pain using a multimodal approach that includes the appropriate use of nonpharmacologic therapies, nonopioid medications, and, when needed, opioid medications. Opioids should not be prescribed as monotherapy for children or adolescents who have acute pain. When using opioids for acute pain management, clinicians should prescribe immediate-release opioid formulations, start with the lowest age- and weight-appropriate doses, and provide an initial supply of 5 or fewer days, unless the pain is related to trauma or surgery with expected duration of pain longer than 5 days. Clinicians should not prescribe codeine or tramadol for patients younger than 12 years; adolescents 12 to 18 years of age who have obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, or severe lung disease; to treat postsurgical pain after tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy in patients younger than 18 years; or for any breastfeeding patient. The CPG recommends providing opioids when appropriate for treating acutely worsened pain in children and adolescents who have a history of chronic pain; clinicians should partner with other opioid-prescribing clinicians involved in the patient's care and/or a specialist in chronic pain or palliative care to determine an appropriate treatment plan. Caution should be used when treating acute pain in those who are taking sedating medications. The CPG describes potential harms of discontinuing or rapidly tapering opioids in individuals who have been on stable, long-term opioids to treat chronic pain. The guideline also recommends providing naloxone and information on naloxone, safe storage and disposal of opioids, and direct observation of medication administration. Clinicians are encouraged to help caregivers develop a plan for safe disposal. The CPG contains 12 key action statements based on evidence from randomized controlled trials, high-quality observational studies, and, when studies are lacking or could not feasibly or ethically be conducted, from expert opinion. Each key action statement includes a level of evidence, the benefit-harm relationship, and the strength of recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott E Hadland
- Mass General for Children; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rita Agarwal
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | - Michael J Smith
- Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Amy Bryl
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego and Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Jeremy Michel
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania and Department of Biomedical Informatics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Lorraine I Kelley-Quon
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Departments of Surgery and Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mehul V Raval
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Madeline H Renny
- Departments of Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, and Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | | | - Scott Wexelblatt
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Calihan JB, Carney BL, Schmill DM, Bagley SM. The Call for a School-Based Approach to Opioid Overdose Prevention. Am J Public Health 2024:e1-e4. [PMID: 39326003 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2024.307849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica B Calihan
- Jessica B. Calihan and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Division of Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center Boston, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney is also with the Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance & Department of Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA. Deb M. Schmill is with the Becca Schmill Foundation, Needham, MA
| | - Brittany L Carney
- Jessica B. Calihan and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Division of Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center Boston, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney is also with the Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance & Department of Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA. Deb M. Schmill is with the Becca Schmill Foundation, Needham, MA
| | - Deb M Schmill
- Jessica B. Calihan and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Division of Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center Boston, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney is also with the Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance & Department of Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA. Deb M. Schmill is with the Becca Schmill Foundation, Needham, MA
| | - Sarah M Bagley
- Jessica B. Calihan and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Division of Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center Boston, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney and Sarah M. Bagley are with the Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Brittany L. Carney is also with the Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance & Department of Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA. Deb M. Schmill is with the Becca Schmill Foundation, Needham, MA
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Dong H, Stringfellow EJ, Russell A, Jalali MS. State Mandates On Naloxone Coprescribing Associated With Short-Term Increase In Naloxone Codispensing. Health Aff (Millwood) 2024; 43:1319-1328. [PMID: 39226505 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2023.01667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
In the midst of the opioid crisis in the US, efforts to mitigate overdose risks have become paramount, leading some states to introduce mandates for coprescribing the life-saving overdose reversal drug naloxone. These mandates were designed to specifically address people receiving opioid analgesics who had an elevated risk for overdose. This included people receiving high opioid dosages, those concurrently using benzodiazepines, or those with a history of substance use disorder or overdose. Using a nationally representative, multipayer cohort of patients receiving prescription opioids, we investigated how naloxone codispensing rates changed at the state level from 2016 to 2021 among patients with an elevated risk for overdose. Then we used controlled interrupted time series analyses to assess mandates' longitudinal impact on naloxone codispensing in ten states that implemented mandates. We observed an immediate and significant increase in the naloxone codispensing rates in eight states after the implementation of mandates. Nevertheless, in five of these states, the codispensing rates exhibited a subsequent downward trend after the initial increase. State mandates show potential for improving naloxone codispensing; however, mandates alone might not be adequate for sustained change. Further research is needed to identify strategies complementing and enhancing the impact of mandates in combating the overdose crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiru Dong
- Huiru Dong, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Alton Russell
- Alton Russell, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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Smart R, Powell D, Pacula RL, Peet E, Abouk R, Davis CS. Investigating the complexity of naloxone distribution: Which policies matter for pharmacies and potential recipients. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2024; 97:102917. [PMID: 39043099 PMCID: PMC11392605 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2024.102917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Despite efforts to expand naloxone access, opioid-related overdoses remain a significant contributor to mortality. We study state efforts to expand naloxone distribution through pharmacies by reducing the non-monetary costs to prescribers, dispensers, and/or potential recipients of naloxone. We find that laws that only address liability costs have small and insignificant effects on the volume of naloxone dispensed through pharmacies. In contrast, we estimate large effects of laws removing the need for patients to obtain prescriptions from traditional prescribers (e.g., primary care physicians): laws authorizing non-patient-specific prescription distribution and laws granting pharmacists prescriptive authority. We test whether areas designated as primary care shortage areas-where it would be costlier to obtain a prescription-were disproportionately impacted. Shortage areas experienced sharper growth in pharmacy naloxone dispensing in states adopting prescriptive authority policies. These gains were primarily due to those facing low out-of-pocket costs, suggesting that price barriers also must be addressed to increase naloxone purchases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Rahi Abouk
- William Paterson University, United States
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Amaram-Davila J, Vega MF, Kim MJ, Dalal S, Dev R, Tanco K, Admane S, De Moraes AR, Thomas LA, Shelal Z, Gogineni M, Bramati P, Urbauer D, Hui D, Arthur J, Haider A, Bruera E, Reddy A. Perceptions Towards Naloxone among Patients with Cancer Receiving Opioids. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024:S0885-3924(24)00991-6. [PMID: 39218123 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Naloxone nasal spray is recommended for patients with risk factors for opioid overdose. However, cancer patients' perceptions and beliefs regarding naloxone prescriptions and their self-perceived risks for overdose are understudied. OBJECTIVE To determine the proportion of cancer patients at risk for overdose who perceived naloxone as beneficial. METHODS Between July 2020 and April 2022, we surveyed 150 adult patients from the supportive care ambulatory clinic at a tertiary cancer center in the United States who received a co-prescription of naloxone nasal spray. We measured patients' knowledge of overdose risk-factors, attitudes, beliefs, and education received on naloxone. Risk-factors between beneficial vs. non-beneficial groups were analyzed. The survey was administered on paper or via a telephone interview. RESULTS Of the 150 patients, 55% were male, 70% were white, and 81% had advanced cancer. The majority of patients believed naloxone was beneficial (100/150, 67%). When compared to the non-beneficial group, more patients from the beneficial group agreed that the concurrent use of alcohol (100% vs. 90%;p=0.004) or sedating drugs (96% vs.85%;p=0.04) with opioids could result in overdoses and felt safe having naloxone at home (95% vs. 60%;p<0.0001). More patients from the non-beneficial group associated naloxone prescription with being suspected of misusing opioids (12/50 vs. 8/100;p=0.01), and fewer had confidence in their caregivers' ability to administer naloxone (69% vs. 95%;p<0.0001). CONCLUSION Most patients understood the benefits of naloxone and felt safe having one at home. More research is needed to identify knowledge gaps and develop educational strategies for those who find it non-beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Amaram-Davila
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas.
| | - Maria Franco Vega
- Department of Hospital Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Min Ji Kim
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Shalini Dalal
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Rony Dev
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Kimberson Tanco
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Sonal Admane
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Aline Rozman De Moraes
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Lisa A Thomas
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Meghana Gogineni
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, Texas
| | - Patricia Bramati
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Diana Urbauer
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - David Hui
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Joseph Arthur
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Ali Haider
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
| | - Akhila Reddy
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, Texas
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9
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Paz E, Mashhouri V, Payton ME, Schwartz BD, Linger RMA. Healthcare providers' knowledge and attitudes about overdose prevention sites in Colorado. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:155. [PMID: 39182085 PMCID: PMC11344454 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01066-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overdose prevention sites (OPS) are a harm reduction strategy that offer people who use drugs a variety of resources including but not limited to sterile supplies, linkage to healthcare resources, and intervention if an overdose occurs. OPS operate in over 120 countries and evidence has demonstrated they are an effective harm reduction strategy. Despite their success elsewhere, OPS remain federally illegal in the United States and thus there is limited research on their implementation and outcomes in the United States. This study aimed to identify Colorado healthcare providers' knowledge and attitudes about OPS and determine if there is a correlation between healthcare providers with more knowledge about OPS having a more positive attitude about OPS. METHODS An electronic survey was distributed to healthcare providers in Colorado. Responses were collected in early 2022 and recorded on a 5-point Likert scale. Mean scores between 1 and 5 were calculated for each participant and analysis of variance methods were used to determine correlating demographic factors. A p value of ≤ 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance of all findings. RESULTS This study included 698 participants. A Pearson correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship (r = 0.76, p < 0.0001) between provider knowledge and attitudes about OPS. Emergency medicine providers scored the highest in mean knowledge and attitude scores in comparison to all other specialties. Respondents affiliated with a harm reduction center exhibited the highest mean knowledge and attitude scores. Mean knowledge and attitude scores generally rose with respondents' increasing encounters with people who inject drugs in a typical workday, except when reaching nine or more encounters, where a sharp decline occurred. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the importance of education, exposure to harm reduction strategies, and inter-specialty collaboration in shaping healthcare providers' knowledge and attitudes about OPS. The positive correlation between providers' knowledge and attitudes about OPS suggests that educating healthcare providers on harm reduction strategies, specifically OPS, may lead to reduced stigmatization of OPS among healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Paz
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rocky Vista University, Englewood, CO, USA
| | - Vahid Mashhouri
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rocky Vista University, Englewood, CO, USA
| | - Mark E Payton
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Rocky Vista University, Englewood, CO, USA
| | - Brian D Schwartz
- Medical Humanities Department, Rocky Vista University, Englewood, CO, USA
| | - Rachel M A Linger
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Rocky Vista University, Englewood, CO, USA.
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Blanford C, Rowell-Cunsolo T. How Social Workers Can Be Deployed to Assist with the Ongoing Opioid Crisis. HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2024; 49:185-191. [PMID: 38878168 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlae019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic has claimed more than 1 million lives in the United States over the past two decades. The persistent increase in deaths indicates that current strategies intended to decrease the negative consequences of opioid use are inadequate. Harm reduction strategies are designed to promote safer substance usage and reduce overdose mortality rates, yet the implementation of harm reduction programs is inhibited by community- and provider-level stigma against people who use opioids, coupled with limited understanding and insufficient education about harm reduction approaches. Despite ongoing research, engagement in opioid treatment programs remains a challenge, and the opioid crisis continues to disproportionately harm marginalized populations. This article describes how social workers are prepared to play a larger role in opioid use treatment because they are trained with the skill set and values necessary to facilitate access to harm reduction programs, promote engagement in substance use treatment, and create and advocate for interventions to address problematic substance use, especially in high-need communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Blanford
- Courtney Blanford, MSW, is a doctoral student, School of Social Work, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1350 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Tawandra Rowell-Cunsolo
- Tawandra Rowell-Cunsolo, PhD, is assistant professor, School of Social Work, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Illescas A, Liu J, Zhong H, Reisinger L, Cozowicz C, Poeran J, Memtsoudis SG. Co-prescription of naloxone in patients prescribed opioids after hospital stays in the USA. Br J Anaesth 2024; 133:447-449. [PMID: 38821750 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2024.04.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Illescas
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jiabin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Haoyan Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lisa Reisinger
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA; Paracelsus Medical University, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine and Intensive Care Medicine, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Crispiana Cozowicz
- Paracelsus Medical University, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine and Intensive Care Medicine, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Jashvant Poeran
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA; Institute for Healthcare Delivery Science, Department of Population Health Science & Policy/Department of Orthopedics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stavros G Memtsoudis
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care & Pain Management, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Health Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
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O'Brien C, Klipp S, Jawa R, Wilson JD. Community pharmacists' attitudes toward and practice of pharmacy-based harm reduction services in Pittsburgh, PA: a descriptive survey. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:137. [PMID: 39030563 PMCID: PMC11264491 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Pittsburgh, PA, legal changes in recent decades have set the stage for an expanded role for community pharmacists to provide harm reduction services, including distributing naloxone and non-prescription syringes (NPS). In the wake of the syndemics of the COVID-19 pandemic and worsening overdose deaths from synthetic opioids, we examine knowledge, attitudes, and practices of harm reduction services among community pharmacists in Pittsburgh and identify potential barriers of expanded pharmacy-based harm reduction services. METHODS We provided flyers to 83 community pharmacies within a 5-mile radius of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center to recruit practicing community pharmacists to participate in an anonymous electronic survey. We used a 53-question Qualtrics survey consisting of multiple-choice, 5 or 6 point-Likert scale, and open-ended questions adapted from 5 existing survey instruments. Survey measures included demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices of harm reduction services (specifically naloxone and NPS provision), and explored self-reported barriers to future implementation. Data was collected July-August 2022. We conducted descriptive analysis using frequencies and proportions reported for categorical variables as well as means and standard deviations (SD) for continuous variables. We analyzed open-ended responses using inductive content analysis. RESULTS Eighty-eight community pharmacists responded to the survey. 90% of participants agreed pharmacists had a role in overdose prevention efforts, and 92% of participants had previously distributed naloxone. Although no pharmacists reported ever refusing to distribute naloxone, only 29% always provided overdose prevention counseling with each naloxone distributed. In contrast, while 87% of participants had positive attitudes toward the usefulness of NPS for reducing disease, only 73% of participants ever distributed NPS, and 54% had refused NPS to a customer. Participants endorsed a lack of time and concerns over clientele who used drugs as the most significant barriers to offering more comprehensive harm reduction services. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight that while most community pharmacists have embraced naloxone provision, pharmacy policies and individual pharmacists continue to limit accessibility of NPS. Future expansion efforts for pharmacy-based harm reduction services should not only address the time and labor constraints identified by community pharmacists, but also fear-based policy and stigma toward people who inject drugs and harm reduction more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin O'Brien
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | | | - Raagini Jawa
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Center for Research in Healthcare, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Deanna Wilson
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Freibott CE, Jalali A, Murphy SM, Walley AY, Linas BP, Jeng PJ, Bratberg J, Marshall BDL, Zang X, Green TC, Morgan JR. The association between naloxone claims and proportion of independent versus chain pharmacies: A longitudinal analysis of naloxone claims in the United States. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:102093. [PMID: 38604474 PMCID: PMC11402586 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2024.102093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expanding access to naloxone through pharmacies is an important policy goal. Our objective was to characterize national county-level naloxone dispensing of chain versus independent pharmacies. METHODS The primary exposure in our longitudinal analysis was the proportion of chain pharmacies in a county, identified through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security 2010 Infrastructure Foundation-Level Data. We defined counties as having "higher proportion" of chain pharmacies if at least 50% of pharmacies were large national chains. The primary outcome was quarter-year (2016Q1-2019Q2) rate of pharmacy naloxone claims per 100,000 persons from Symphony Health at the county level. We compared the naloxone dispensing rate between county types using 2-sample t tests. We estimated the association between county-level chain pharmacy proportion and rate of naloxone claims using a linear model with year-quarter fixed effects. RESULTS Nearly one-third of counties (n = 946) were higher proportion. Higher proportion counties had a significantly higher rate of naloxone claims across the study period, in 4 of 6 urban-rural classifications, and in counties with and without naloxone access laws (NALs). The linear model confirmed that higher proportion counties had a significantly higher rate of naloxone claims, adjusting for urban-rural designation, income, population characteristics, opioid mortality rate, coprescribing laws, and NALs. CONCLUSION In this national study, we found an association between naloxone dispensing rates and the county-level proportion of chain (vs. independent) pharmacies. Incentivizing naloxone dispensing through educational, regulatory, or legal efforts may improve naloxone availability and dispensing rates-particularly in counties with proportionately high numbers of independent pharmacies.
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Quincy Moore P, Ellis K, Simmer P, Waetjen M, Almirol E, Salisbury-Afshar E, Pho MT. Accessibility of Naloxone in Pharmacies Registered Under the Illinois Standing Order. West J Emerg Med 2024; 25:457-464. [PMID: 39028230 PMCID: PMC11254148 DOI: 10.5811/westjem.17979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction To expand access to naloxone, the state of Illinois implemented a standing order allowing registered pharmacies to dispense the drug without an individual prescription. To participate under the standing order, pharmacies were required to opt in through a formal registration process. In our study we aimed to evaluate the availability and price of naloxone at registered pharmacies. Methods This was a prospective, de-identified, cross-sectional telephone survey. Trained interviewers posed as potential customers and used a standardized script to determine the availability of naloxone between February-December, 2019. The primary outcome was defined as a pharmacy indicating it carried naloxone, currently had naloxone in stock, and was able to dispense it without an individual prescription. Results Of 948 registered pharmacies, 886 (93.5%) were successfully contacted. Of those, 792 (83.4%) carried naloxone, 659 (74.4%) had naloxone in stock, and 472 (53.3%) allowed purchase without a prescription. Naloxone nasal spray (86.4%) was the formulation most commonly stocked. Chain pharmacies were more likely to carry naloxone (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.97-5.01, P < 0.01) and have naloxone in stock (aOR 2.72, 95% CI 1.76-4.20, P < 0.01), but no more likely to dispense it without a prescription. Pharmacies in higher population areas (aOR 0.99, 95% CI 0.99-0.99, P < 0.05) and rural areas adjacent to metropolitan areas (aOR 0.5, 95% CI 025-0.98, P < 0.05) were less likely to have naloxone available without a prescription. Associations of naloxone availability based on other urbanicity designations, overdose count, and overdose rate were not significant. Conclusion Among pharmacies in Illinois that formally registered to dispense naloxone without a prescription, the availability of naloxone remains limited. Additional interventions may be needed to maximize the potential impact of a statewide standing order.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Quincy Moore
- Permanente Medical Group, Oakland, California
- Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Oakland, California
| | - Kaitlin Ellis
- Brown University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Patricia Simmer
- University of Chicago, Department of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Mweya Waetjen
- University of Chicago Pritzker, School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ellen Almirol
- University of Chicago, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Elizabeth Salisbury-Afshar
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Madison, Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Population Health Sciences, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Mai T. Pho
- University of Chicago, Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Chicago, Illinois
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Treves-Kagan S, Kennedy K, Carrington M. Examining narratives around adverse childhood experiences and social determinants of health in media coverage of substance use in two mid-western cities. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 73:378-389. [PMID: 37853845 PMCID: PMC11026294 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Local media narratives play an important role in how people interpret and propose solutions for health issues in their community. This research characterized narratives about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and/or social determinants of health (SDOH) in media coverage of substance use. Scans covered articles published in the Detroit Free Press and the Cincinnati Enquirer from March 1, 2019 to June 1, 2019 and March 1, 2021 to June 1, 2021. Scans used search terms for opioids and substance use. Included articles were coded and analyzed for narratives about why people use substances, how to prevent substance use, and how ACEs or SDOH relate to substance use. While half of the included articles reported on the overdose epidemic, the most common type of media coverage reported on criminal justice milestones. Other common narratives identified addiction as an illness that should be treated; and over-prescription of painkillers or the strength of the drugs as causes of substance use disorders. Narratives about SDOH and the primary prevention of ACEs and substance use were limited. Transformational narrative change work can increase support for addressing the root causes of ACEs and substance use. Results suggest this strategy remains largely untapped in the formal media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Treves-Kagan
- Division of Violence Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Katrina Kennedy
- Division of Violence Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Makala Carrington
- Division of Violence Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Association for Schools and Programs in Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
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Rao D, Ford JH, Shiyanbola OO. Patient and pharmacist perspectives on opioid misuse screening and brief interventions in community pharmacies. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2024; 19:27. [PMID: 38589965 PMCID: PMC11003152 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-024-00460-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacy-based screening and brief interventions (SBI) offer opportunities to identify opioid misuse and opioid safety risks and provide brief interventions that do not overly burden pharmacists. Currently, such interventions are being developed without patient input and in-depth contextual data and insufficient translation into practice. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore and compare patient and pharmacist perceptions and needs regarding a pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI and to identify relevant SBI features and future implementation strategies. METHODS Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 8 patients and 11 pharmacists, to explore needs and barriers to participating in a pharmacy-based SBI. We recruited a purposive sample of English-speaking patients prescribed opioids for chronic or acute pain and pharmacists practicing in varied pharmacies (small independent, large-chain, specialty retail) settings. We used an inductive content analysis approach to analyze patient interview data. Then through a template analysis approach involving comparison of pharmacist and patient themes, we developed strategies for SBI implementation. RESULTS Most patient participants were white, older, described living in suburban areas, and were long-term opioid users. We identified template themes related to individual, interpersonal, intervention, and implementation factors and inferred applications for SBI design or potential SBI implementation strategies. We found that patients needed education on opioid safety and general opioid use, regardless of opioid use behaviors. Pharmacists described needing patient-centered training, protocols, and scripts to provide SBI. A short-self-reported screening and brief interventions including counseling, naloxone, and involving prescribers were discussed by both groups. CONCLUSIONS Through this implementation-focused qualitative study, we identified patient needs such as opioid safety education delivered in a private and convenient format and pharmacist needs including training, workflow integration, protocols, and a time-efficient intervention for effective pharmacy-based SBI. Alternate formats of SBI using digital health technologies may be needed for effective implementation. Our findings can be used to develop patient-centered pharmacy-based SBI that can be implemented within actual pharmacy practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Rao
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA.
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.
| | - James H Ford
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
| | - Olayinka O Shiyanbola
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
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Walker DM, Lefebvre RC, Davis A, Shiu-Yee K, Chen S, Jackson RD, Helme DW, Oga EA, Oser CB, Stotz C, Balvanz P, Asman K, Holloway J, Lewis N, Knudsen HK. Differences in perceptions of community stigma towards opioid use disorder between community substance use coalition members and the general public. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 158:209276. [PMID: 38142801 PMCID: PMC10947872 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To examine differences in perceptions about community stigma towards individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) between community members involved in the opioid response (i.e., coalition members) and the general public, and how community geography may moderate this relationship. METHODS This study administered identical cross-sectional surveys about perceived community opioid-related stigma to two distinct populations in 66 communities participating in the HEALing Communities Study prior to the intervention period (i.e., coalition members, November 2019-January 2020; residents, March-April 2020). Linear-mixed models compared survey responses of populations, including the moderating effect of community rural/urban location. RESULTS A total of 826 coalition members and 1131 residents completed the surveys. The study found no differences between the coalition members and residents for general perceived community opioid-related stigma. In both urban and rural communities, coalition members reported greater perceived community stigma than residents reported towards medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), naloxone, and drug treatment as an alternative to incarceration. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest similar perceived community opioid-related stigma between coalition members and residents, yet differences emerge related to evidence-based practices (i.e., MOUD, naloxone, and drug treatment as an alternative to incarceration) to reduce opioid overdose deaths. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04111939.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Walker
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 700 Ackerman Rd, Suite 4000, Columbus, OH 43202, USA; CATALYST, The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 700 Ackerman Rd, Suite 4000, Columbus, OH 43202, USA.
| | - R Craig Lefebvre
- RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 22709, USA
| | - Alissa Davis
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Karen Shiu-Yee
- CATALYST, The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 700 Ackerman Rd, Suite 4000, Columbus, OH 43202, USA
| | - Sadie Chen
- CATALYST, The Center for the Advancement of Team Science, Analytics, and Systems Thinking in Health Services and Implementation Science Research, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, 700 Ackerman Rd, Suite 4000, Columbus, OH 43202, USA
| | - Rebecca D Jackson
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science and the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, 376 W. 10th Ave, Suite 205, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Donald W Helme
- Department of Communication, College of Communication and Information, University of Kentucky, 263 Blazer Dining, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Emmanuel A Oga
- RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 22709, USA
| | - Carrie B Oser
- Department of Sociology, Center for Health Equity Transformation, Center on Drug & Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 1531 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
| | - Caroline Stotz
- Boston Medical Center, One Boston Medical Center Place, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Peter Balvanz
- Boston Medical Center, One Boston Medical Center Place, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Kat Asman
- RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 22709, USA
| | - JaNae Holloway
- RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 22709, USA
| | - Nicky Lewis
- Department of Communication, College of Communication and Information, University of Kentucky, 263 Blazer Dining, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Hannah K Knudsen
- Department of Sociology, Center for Health Equity Transformation, Center on Drug & Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 1531 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY 40508, USA; Department of Behavioral Science and Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, 845 Angliana Avenue, Room 204, Lexington, KY 40508, USA
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Bechtol AC, Ramage M, Krulikas LJ, Futrell K, Caron O. Naloxone access in perinatal substance use disorder. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024:102026. [PMID: 38320652 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2024.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risk of fatal drug overdose is higher in pregnant and postpartum people with substance use disorder (SUD) than for nonpregnant women of reproductive age. It is recommended that naloxone is prescribed for pregnancies complicated by opioid or stimulant use disorder. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the rates of naloxone coprescribing with buprenorphine in a perinatal SUD (PSUD) specialty clinic and identify opportunities for pharmacist-led interventions to improve communication and documentation surrounding naloxone access to achieve a rate of 100% coprescribing of naloxone with buprenorphine. PRACTICE DESCRIPTION A clinical pharmacist practitioner is embedded on the Project CARA (Care that Advocates Respect/Resilience/Recovery for All) team, which provides outpatient SUD care integrated with perinatal care in Western North Carolina. PRACTICE INNOVATION The clinical pharmacist practitioner assessed baseline rates of naloxone coprescribing with medications for opioid use disorder. Interventions to improve rates of coprescribing include provider education, electronic health record (EHR) documentation templates, and direct patient outreach. EVALUATION METHODS Baseline rates of naloxone coprescribing were assessed and then re-evaluated after different interventions to measure pharmacist impact. RESULTS Each intervention improved rates of naloxone coprescribing in a PSUD clinic. EHR documentation templates had the largest impact on baseline efforts, although the long-term benefits derived from these efforts have not yet been demonstrated. Substantial time investment from the pharmacist was required to address patients' barriers to obtaining naloxone after their visits. CONCLUSION Further process improvement should address barriers to naloxone access for both patients and providers. This may include proactive identification of patients in need of naloxone and a "meds-to-beds" pilot to assist patients in navigating logistical challenges.
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Stone SN, Curley N, Sheth M, Butler C, Margolis S. Naloxone-Prescribing Practices in a Freestanding Rehabilitation Hospital. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2024; 103:105-109. [PMID: 37339054 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000002305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aims to determine whether Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physicians offer naloxone per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines to patients at the highest risk of complications from opioid treatment and whether there is a difference between inpatient and outpatient naloxone prescribing. DESIGN A retrospective chart review on 389 adults (outpatient n = 166; inpatient n = 223) from May 4 to May 31, 2022, at an academic rehabilitation hospital. Prescribed medications and comorbidities were evaluated to determine whether Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for offering naloxone were met and whether naloxone was offered. RESULTS One hundred twenty-nine opioid prescriptions were written for 102 outpatients; 61 qualified for naloxone (morphine milliequivalent range = 10-1080, mean = 158.08). On inpatient, 68 patients received 86 opioid prescriptions; 35 qualified for naloxone (morphine milliequivalent range = 3.75-246, mean = 62.36). Overall, there was a significantly lower rate of opioid prescriptions for inpatients (30.49%) than outpatients (61.45%) ( P < 0.0001), a nonsignificant lower rate of inpatient (51.47%) than outpatient (59.80%) "at-risk" prescriptions ( P = 0.351), and a weakly significant lower rate of naloxone prescribing for inpatient (2.86%) than outpatient visits (8.20%) ( P < 0.0519). CONCLUSIONS At this rehabilitation hospital, there was a low rate of naloxone prescribing by inpatient and outpatient providers, with a higher rate occurring in the outpatient than inpatient setting. More research is needed to understand this prescribing trend to determine potential interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane N Stone
- From the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (SNS, SM); The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, Illinois (SNS, MS, CB, SM); and Creighton University Arizona Health Education Alliance, Phoenix, Arizona (NC)
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Alessio-Bilowus D, Luby AO, Cooley S, Evilsizer S, Seese E, Bicket M, Waljee JF. Perioperative Opioid-Related Harms: Opportunities to Minimize Risk. Semin Plast Surg 2024; 38:61-68. [PMID: 38495063 PMCID: PMC10942841 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Although substantial attention has been given to opioid prescribing in the United States, opioid-related mortality continues to climb due to the rising incidence and prevalence of opioid use disorder. Perioperative care has an important role in the consideration of opioid prescribing and the care of individuals at risk for poor postoperative pain- and opioid-related outcomes. Opioids are effective for acute pain management and commonly prescribed for postoperative pain. However, failure to align prescribing with patient need can result in overprescribing and exacerbate the flow of unused opioids into communities. Conversely, underprescribing can result in the undertreatment of pain, complicating recovery and impairing well-being after surgery. Optimizing pain management can be particularly challenging for individuals who are previously exposed to opioids or have critical risk factors, including opioid use disorder. In this review, we will explore the role of perioperative care in the broader context of the opioid epidemic in the United States, and provide considerations for a multidisciplinary, comprehensive approach to perioperative pain management and optimal opioid stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Alessio-Bilowus
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Alexandra O. Luby
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | | | | | - Mark Bicket
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Division of Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jennifer F. Waljee
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Rao D, McAtee C, Mercy M, Shiyanbola OO, Ford JH. An Implementation-Focused Qualitative Exploration of Pharmacist Needs Regarding an Opioid Use Disorder Screening and Brief Intervention. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:24-32. [PMID: 38258852 DOI: 10.1177/29767342231211428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Screening and brief interventions (SBI) can help identify opioid safety risks and healthcare professionals can accordingly intervene without a significant increase in workload. Pharmacists, one of the most accessible healthcare professionals, are uniquely positioned to offer SBI. To design an effective intervention with high potential for implementation, we explored pharmacist needs and barriers regarding SBI for opioid use disorders. METHODS Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), we conducted 11 semi-structured 60-minute interviews with community pharmacists. We used a purposeful sample of English-speaking pharmacists practicing in varied pharmacies (small independent, large-chain, specialty-retail) and positions (managers, owners, full-time/part-time pharmacists). Transcriptions were analyzed using deductive content analysis based on CFIR constructs, followed by inductive open coding. Utilizing a theoretical framework for data collection and analysis, a diverse sample of pharmacist roles, peer debriefing, and 2 independent coders for each transcript, altogether increased the credibility and transferability of our research. Data collection and analysis continued until data saturation was achieved. RESULTS Pharmacists described good working relationships with colleagues, organization cultures that were open to new initiatives, and believed the SBI to be compatible with their organization goals and pharmacy structure, which are facilitators for future SBI implementation. Pharmacists were motivated by improved patient outcomes, more patient interaction and clinical roles, representing facilitators at the individual level. They also described stigma toward patients, mixed need for change, and lack of knowledge regarding SBI, which are potential barriers to be addressed. Pharmacists believed that the SBI model was adaptable, not complicated, and benefits outweighed implementation costs. CONCLUSIONS We addressed current SBI literature gaps-mainly lack of focus on implementation and contextual data, through rigorous implementation-focused qualitative research. Our exploratory findings have direct implications on future pharmacy-based SBI implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Rao
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | | | - Meg Mercy
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - James H Ford
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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22
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Dowd WN. The effect of untargeted naloxone distribution on opioid overdose outcomes. HEALTH ECONOMICS 2023; 32:2801-2818. [PMID: 37670413 DOI: 10.1002/hec.4755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Opioid overdose has claimed the lives of over 340,000 Americans in the last decade. Over that same period, policymakers have taken steps to increase the availability of naloxone-an opioid antagonist used to rescue overdose victims-to people in the community. Previous studies, most of which have examined the effects of state laws designed to facilitate access to naloxone, have reached mixed conclusions about the effects of naloxone access on fatal and non-fatal overdoses. This paper exploits a unique policy experiment provided by two naloxone giveaways intended to increase naloxone possession among the general public in Pennsylvania to estimate the causal impact of naloxone distribution on fatal overdoses and opioid-related emergency department (ED) visits. Using a difference-in-differences design, I find evidence that opioid overdose deaths fell immediately following the first giveaway but increased following the second giveaway and discuss these apparently contradictory findings in the context of the changing composition of the opioid supply. I also find some evidence of a decline in opioid overdose-related ED visits following the giveaways. This study is the first to examine the effects of untargeted naloxone distribution and has implications for other novel, naloxone distribution efforts currently underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- William N Dowd
- Public Health Division, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Daffron A, Koon K, Gruenke NP, Wettergreen S. Effects of pharmacist-driven protocol on naloxone prescribing rates in two primary care clinics. Prev Med Rep 2023; 36:102493. [PMID: 38116254 PMCID: PMC10728458 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain recommend co-prescribing naloxone as a harm reduction strategy when there is an increased risk of opioid overdose. Although naloxone co-prescribing is an important harm reduction strategy, many at risk patients are not prescribed naloxone. The objective was to assess the effectiveness of a pharmacist-driven protocol at increasing the number of patients co-prescribed naloxone according to CDC recommendations. The study design was a multi-center retrospective cohort to evaluate the outcomes of a quality improvement intervention at two primary care clinics which aimed to increase naloxone co-prescribing. The intervention used a two-pronged approach consisting of telephonic outreach to eligible patients by pharmacists and pharmacy interns related to naloxone education and recommendations for naloxone co-prescribing. Additionally, recommendations were sent to the primary care provider in the electronic medical record (EMR) for consideration and implementation. After the 3 month intervention, 57 of the 86 patients contacted were co-prescribed naloxone (66.3%). Most naloxone initiation occurred at the time of telephonic outreach as a new medication order (n = 36), however an additional 12 patients were co-prescribed naloxone at a subsequent primary care provider visit. The proportion of patients at each clinic with MME ≥ 50 co-prescribed naloxone significantly increased after implementation of the intervention (pre 25/64 vs. post 43/76, p = 0.043). Overall, telephonic outreach to patients with recommendations to primary care providers in the EMR were effective methods to increase the rate of naloxone co-prescribing in primary care based on this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Daffron
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 12850 E. Montview Blvd, C238 Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Kelly Koon
- PGY-2 Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Resident, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 12850 E. Montview Blvd, C238 Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Nathan P Gruenke
- Pharmacy Student, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 12850 E. Montview Blvd, C238 Aurora, CO 80045, United States
| | - Sara Wettergreen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 12850 E. Montview Blvd, C238 Aurora, CO 80045, United States
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24
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Rawal S, Osae SP, Tackett RL, MacKinnon NJ, Soiro FD, Young HN. Community pharmacists' naloxone counseling: A theory-informed qualitative study. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:1743-1752.e2. [PMID: 37633453 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid-related overdose (ORO) deaths have reached a record high in the United States. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. Pharmacists are in an ideal position to provide naloxone and related counseling, given their accessibility and expertise. However, minimal research is available on community pharmacists' naloxone counseling. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate Georgia community pharmacists' naloxone counseling as well as explore their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control toward counseling. METHODS Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted to elicit pharmacists' beliefs and practices regarding naloxone counseling. The interviews were guided by open-ended questions based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Thematic analysis was performed to identify the modal salient beliefs expressed by the pharmacists. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research was used to report the study findings. RESULTS A total of 12 community pharmacists participated. Pharmacists held mixed attitudes toward naloxone counseling. While they recognized it as a vital part of their profession to prevent ORO deaths, they also expressed concerns about offending patients. Regarding normative beliefs, pharmacists identified several groups, including regulatory agencies (e.g., Board of Pharmacy, CDC), managers, news/media, patients, and doctors, influencing their provision of naloxone counseling. Facilitators to counseling included receiving naloxone training and having access to counseling guidelines and resources. Reimbursement issues, high costs of naloxone, and lack of patient awareness were the most commonly cited barriers. Pharmacists reported participating in counseling and providing information on identifying signs of opioid overdose and administering naloxone. CONCLUSIONS The TPB is a useful framework for understanding community pharmacists' beliefs and practices regarding naloxone counseling. Capitalizing on facilitators and targeting barriers related to pharmacists' reimbursement issues, high costs of naloxone, and increasing patients' awareness of naloxone use and benefits may enhance pharmacists' naloxone counseling.
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Chatterjee A, Yan S, Lambert A, Morgan JR, Green TC, Jeng PJ, Jalali A, Xuan Z, Krieger M, Marshall BDL, Walley AY, Murphy SM. Comparison of a national commercial pharmacy naloxone data source to state and city pharmacy naloxone data sources-Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New York City, 2013-2019. Health Serv Res 2023; 58:1141-1150. [PMID: 37408299 PMCID: PMC10480090 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.14200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Accurate naloxone distribution data are critical for planning and prevention purposes, yet sources of naloxone dispensing data vary by location, and completeness of local datasets is unknown. We sought to compare available datasets in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York City (NYC) to a commercially available pharmacy national claims dataset (Symphony Health Solutions). DATA SOURCES AND STUDY SETTING We utilized retail pharmacy naloxone dispensing data from NYC (2018-2019), Rhode Island (2013-2019), and Massachusetts (2014-2018), and pharmaceutical claims data from Symphony Health Solutions (2013-2019). STUDY DESIGN We conducted a descriptive, retrospective, and secondary analysis comparing naloxone dispensing events (NDEs) captured via Symphony to NDEs captured by local datasets from the three jurisdictions between 2013 and 2019, when data were available from both sources, using descriptive statistics, regressions, and heat maps. DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS We defined an NDE as a dispensing event documented by the pharmacy and assumed that each dispensing event represented one naloxone kit (i.e., two doses). We extracted NDEs from local datasets and the Symphony claims dataset. The unit of analysis was the ZIP Code annual quarter. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS NDEs captured by Symphony exceeded those in local datasets for each time period and location, except in RI following legislation requiring NDEs to be reported to the PDMP. In regression analysis, absolute differences in NDEs between datasets increased substantially over time, except in RI before the PDMP. Heat maps of NDEs by ZIP code quarter showed important variations reflecting where pharmacies may not be reporting NDEs to Symphony or local datasets. CONCLUSIONS Policymakers must be able to monitor the quantity and location of NDEs in order to combat the opioid crisis. In regions where NDEs are not required to be reported to PDMPs, proprietary pharmaceutical claims datasets may be useful alternatives, with a need for local expertise to assess dataset-specific variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avik Chatterjee
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Section of General Internal MedicineBoston Medical Center/Boston University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Shapei Yan
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Section of General Internal MedicineBoston Medical Center/Boston University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Audrey Lambert
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Section of General Internal MedicineBoston Medical Center/Boston University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jake R. Morgan
- Boston University School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Traci C. Green
- The Heller School for Social Policy and ManagementBrandeis UniversityWalthamMassachusettsUSA
| | - Philip J. Jeng
- Department of Population Health SciencesWeill Cornell Medical CollegeNew York CityNew YorkUSA
| | - Ali Jalali
- Department of Population Health SciencesWeill Cornell Medical CollegeNew York CityNew YorkUSA
| | - Ziming Xuan
- Boston University School of Public HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Maxwell Krieger
- Department of EpidemiologyBrown University School of Public HealthProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Brandon D. L. Marshall
- Department of EpidemiologyBrown University School of Public HealthProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Section of General Internal MedicineBoston Medical Center/Boston University School of MedicineBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Sean M. Murphy
- Department of Population Health SciencesWeill Cornell Medical CollegeNew York CityNew YorkUSA
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Carpenedo Mun C, Schuler H, Baker R, Byrne F, Bresani E, Meyers K. Rural communities face more than an opioid crisis: Reimagining funding assistance to address polysubstance use, associated health problems, and limited rural service capacity. J Rural Health 2023; 39:795-803. [PMID: 36775905 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rural communities in the United States face unique challenges related to the opioid epidemic. This paper explores the substances and substance-related health problems that pose the greatest concern to rural communities that received funding to address the opioid epidemic and examines their reported capacity to address these challenges. METHODS This paper analyzed data collected as part of quarterly progress reporting from multisector consortiums across 2 cohorts of grantees funded to reduce the morbidity and mortality of opioids. Consortium project directors ranked the top 3 issues in their community in each of the following categories: (1) drugs of concern; (2) drugs with the least capacity to address; (3) related problem areas of concern (eg, neonatal abstinence syndrome [NAS]); and (4) related problem areas with the least capacity to address. FINDINGS Methamphetamines, fentanyl, and alcohol were the substances rated as most problematic in rural communities funded to address the opioid epidemic across all reporting periods. Over 40% of respondents ranked methamphetamine as a top concern and the substance they had the least capacity to address. This was nearly double the percentage of the next highest-ranked substance (fentanyl). Overdoses, NAS, and viral hepatitis constituted the top-ranking related concerns, with limited capacity to address them. CONCLUSIONS Multiple drug and concomitant problems coalesced on rural communities during the opioid epidemic. Funding communities to address substance use disorders and related problems of concern, rather than targeting funding toward a specific type of drug, may result in better health outcomes throughout the entire community.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robin Baker
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Fraser Byrne
- Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Elena Bresani
- JBS International, Inc., North Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Sisson ML, Azuero A, Chichester KR, Carpenter MJ, Businelle MS, Shelton RC, Cropsey KL. Preliminary effectiveness of online opioid overdose and naloxone administration training and impact of naloxone possession on opioid use. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 249:110815. [PMID: 37336007 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the demonstrated value of opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND) programs, uptake and utilization remains low. Accessibility to OEND is limited and traditional programs may not reach many high-risk individuals. This study evaluated the effectiveness of online opioid overdose and naloxone administration education and the impact of naloxone possession. METHODS Individuals with self-reported illicit use of opioids were recruited via Craigslist advertisements and completed all assessments and education online via REDCap. Participants watched a 20-minute video outlining signs of opioid overdose and how to administer naloxone. They were then randomized to either receive a naloxone kit or be given instructions on where to obtain a kit. Effectiveness of training was measured with pre- and post-training knowledge questionnaires. Naloxone kit possession, overdoses, opioid use frequency, and treatment interest were self-reported on monthly follow-up assessments. RESULTS Mean knowledge scores significantly increased from 6.82/9.00 to 8.22 after training (t(194)=6.85, p <0.001, 95% CI[1.00, 1.81], Cohen's d=0.85). Difference in naloxone possession between randomized groups was significant with a large effect size (p <0.001, diff=0.60, 95% CI[0.47, 0.73]). A bidirectional relationship was found between naloxone possession and frequency of opioid use. Overdoses and treatment interest were similar across possession status. CONCLUSIONS Overdose education is effective in online video format. Disparity in naloxone possession across groups indicates barriers to obtaining naloxone from pharmacies. Naloxone possession did not influence risky opioid use or treatment interest and its impact on frequency of use warrants further investigation. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinitaltrials.gov-NCT04303000.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Sisson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Andres Azuero
- Department of Nursing, Family, Community & Health Systems, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Keith R Chichester
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Matthew J Carpenter
- Medical University of South Carolina, Hollings Cancer Center & Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Michael S Businelle
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Richard C Shelton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Karen L Cropsey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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28
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Pérez-Figueroa RE, Oser CB, Malinowska K. Access to naloxone in underserved communities. BMJ 2023; 381:894. [PMID: 37185348 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.p894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carrie B Oser
- University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, Lexington, KY, USA
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Cuadros DF, Branscum AJ, Moreno CM, MacKinnon NJ. Narrative minireview of the spatial epidemiology of substance use disorder in the United States: Who is at risk and where? World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:2374-2385. [PMID: 37123313 PMCID: PMC10131000 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i11.2374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug overdose is the leading cause of death by injury in the United States. The incidence of substance use disorder (SUD) in the United States has increased steadily over the past two decades, becoming a major public health problem for the country. The drivers of the SUD epidemic in the United States have changed over time, characterized by an initial heroin outbreak between 1970 and 1999, followed by a painkiller outbreak, and finally by an ongoing synthetic opioid outbreak. The nature and sources of these abused substances reveal striking differences in the socioeconomic and behavioral factors that shape the drug epidemic. Moreover, the geospatial distribution of the SUD epidemic is not homogeneous. The United States has specific locations where vulnerable communities at high risk of SUD are concentrated, reaffirming the multifactorial socioeconomic nature of this epidemic. A better understanding of the SUD epidemic under a spatial epidemiology framework is necessary to determine the factors that have shaped its spread and how these patterns can be used to predict new outbreaks and create effective mitigation policies. This narrative minireview summarizes the current records of the spatial distribution of the SUD epidemic in the United States across different periods, revealing some spatiotemporal patterns that have preceded the occurrence of outbreaks. By analyzing the epidemic of SUD-related deaths, we also describe the epidemic behavior in areas with high incidence of cases. Finally, we describe public health interventions that can be effective for demographic groups, and we discuss future challenges in the study and control of the SUD epidemic in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego F Cuadros
- Digital Futures, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45206, United States
| | - Adam J Branscum
- Department of Biostatistics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, United States
| | - Claudia M Moreno
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Neil J MacKinnon
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
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30
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Bruzelius E, Cerdá M, Davis CS, Jent V, Wheeler-Martin K, Mauro CM, Crystal S, Keyes KM, Samples H, Hasin DS, Martins SS. Naloxone expansion is not associated with increases in adolescent heroin use and injection drug use: Evidence from 44 US states. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 114:103980. [PMID: 36863285 PMCID: PMC11268161 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.103980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Naloxone distribution is central to ongoing efforts to address the opioid overdose crisis. Some critics contend that naloxone expansion may inadvertently promote high-risk substance use behaviors among adolescents, but this question has not been directly investigated. METHODS We examined relationships between naloxone access laws and pharmacy naloxone distribution with lifetime heroin and injection drug use (IDU), 2007-2019. Models generating adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) included year and state fixed effects, controlled for demographics and sources of variation in opioid environments (e.g., fentanyl penetration), as well as additional policies expected to impact substance use (e.g., prescription drug monitoring). Exploratory and sensitivity analyses further examined naloxone law provisions (e.g., third-party prescribing) and applied e-value testing to assess vulnerability to unmeasured confounding. RESULTS Adoption of any naloxone law was not associated with changes in adolescent lifetime heroin or IDU. For pharmacy dispensing, we observed a small decrease in heroin use (aOR: 0.95 [CI: 0.92, 0.99]) and a small increase in IDU (aOR: 1.07 [CI: 1.02, 1.11]). Exploratory analyses of law provisions suggested that third-party prescribing (aOR: 0.80, [CI: 0.66, 0.96]) and non-patient-specific dispensing models (aOR: 0.78, [CI: 0.61, 0.99]) were associated with decreased heroin use but not decreased IDU. Small e-values associated with the pharmacy dispensing and provision estimates indicate that unmeasured confounding may explain observed findings. CONCLUSION Naloxone access laws and pharmacy naloxone distribution were more consistently associated with decreases rather than increases in lifetime heroin and IDU among adolescents. Our findings therefore do not support concerns that naloxone access promotes high-risk adolescent substance use behaviors. As of 2019, all US states have adopted legislation to improve naloxone access and facilitate use. However, further removal of adolescent naloxone access barriers is an important priority given that the opioid epidemic continues to affect people of all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Bruzelius
- Columbia University, Department of Epidemiology, 722 W. 168th St. New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Magdalena Cerdá
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Avenue 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Corey S Davis
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Avenue 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA; Network for Public Health Law, 7101 York Avenue South, #270 Edina, MN 55435, USA
| | - Victoria Jent
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Avenue 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Katherine Wheeler-Martin
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 180 Madison Avenue 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Christine M Mauro
- Columbia University, Department of Biostatistics, 722 W. 168th St. New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Stephen Crystal
- Rutgers University, 112 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Katherine M Keyes
- Columbia University, Department of Epidemiology, 722 W. 168th St. New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Hillary Samples
- Rutgers University, 112 Paterson Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Deborah S Hasin
- Columbia University, Department of Psychiatry, 722 W. 168th Street, Room 228F, New York, New York 10032, USA
| | - Silvia S Martins
- Columbia University, Department of Epidemiology, 722 W. 168th St. New York, NY, 10032, USA
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Herman ST, Detyniecki K, O'Hara K, Penovich P, Rao VR, Tatum W, Long L, Stern JM, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Written seizure action plans for adult patients with epilepsy: Distilling insights from emergency action plans for other chronic conditions. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 140:109002. [PMID: 36822041 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.109002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Seizure emergencies and potential emergencies, ranging from seizure clusters to prolonged seizure and status epilepticus, may affect adults with epilepsy despite stable antiseizure therapy. Seizure action plans (SAPs) are designed for patients and their caregivers/care partners to provide guidance on the individualized treatment plan, including response to potential seizure emergencies and appropriate use of rescue therapy. The use of pediatric SAPs is common (typically required by schools), however, most adults with epilepsy do not have a plan. Patient-centered action plans are integral to care for other chronic conditions and may offer insights applicable to the care of adults with epilepsy. This review analyzes the potential benefits of action plans for medical conditions by exploring their utility in conditions such as asthma, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease, and opioid overdose. Evidence across these conditions substantiates the value of action plans for patients, and the benefits of adult SAPs in epilepsy are emerging. Because wide implementation of SAPs has faced barriers, other conditions may provide insights that are relevant to implementing SAPs in epilepsy. Based on these analyses, we propose concrete steps to improve the use of SAPs among adults. A recent consensus statement promoting the use of formal SAPs in epilepsy and advances in rescue therapy delivery methods provides support to engage patients around the value of SAPs. The precedent for use of SAPs for pediatric epilepsy patients serves as the foundation to support increased usage in adults. Seizure action plans in the context of improved clinical outcomes are expected to reduce healthcare utilization, improve patient quality of life, and optimize epilepsy management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan T Herman
- Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ, United States.
| | | | | | | | - Vikram R Rao
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | | | - John M Stern
- University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Enrique Carrazana
- University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI, United States; Neurelis, Inc, San Diego, CA, United States
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Differences in Self-identification of Opioid Overdose Risk and Naloxone Perceptions Between Therapeutic and Nontherapeutic Opioid Populations. J Addict Med 2023; 17:197-205. [PMID: 36148998 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Efforts to improve low naloxone uptake to mitigate the current opioid crisis have included coprescribing naloxone with opioid medications and, more recently, expansion through over-the-counter availability, the latter of which necessitates self-identification of overdose risk by consumers. This study sought to understand perceptions of opioid overdose risk and naloxone among distinct opioid populations at elevated risk for overdose. METHODS A cross-sectional, online survey was provided to 2 opioid populations in June 2020. First, chronic pain opioid managed (CPOM; n = 190) individuals currently treated with an opioid prescription (either >50 daily morphine milligram equivalents [73.2%] or benzodiazepine co-use [52.6%]), restricted by confounders. Second, individuals with a history of opioid use disorder (OUD; n = 152) previously participating in a national opioid surveillance study of new entrants to substance use treatment centers. RESULTS Risk perceptions significantly differed, with 60.0% (CPOM) versus 28.9% (OUD) reporting that they were "not at all concerned about overdosing," and 62.1% (CPOM) versus 19.1% (OUD) perceiving themselves as having "no risk" of overdose. Perceived need for naloxone was lower among CPOM versus OUD patients (48.3% and 71.8%, respectively), whereas 22.6% and 35.0%, respectively, indicated any likelihood of obtaining naloxone in the future. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that a significant proportion of both samples lacked the ability to self-identify their risk of overdose and self-select themselves as needing naloxone, with gaps being more prominent in the CPOM sample. A multi-intervention framework that addresses distinct pathways of behavioral change between unique opioid populations should be considered in conversations surrounding potential transitions to over-the-counter naloxone.
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Cheng Y, Freeman PR, Slade E, Sohn M, Talbert JC, Delcher C. Medicaid expansion and access to naloxone in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. J Rural Health 2023; 39:347-354. [PMID: 36333992 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The opioid crisis remains a major public health concern in the United States. Naloxone is used to reverse opioid overdoses. This study examined Medicaid expansion on naloxone prescriptions in retail pharmacies in metropolitan (metro) and nonmetropolitan (nonmetro) areas (2011-2017). METHODS We used population average models to evaluate the association of Medicaid expansion at the state level on the number of naloxone prescriptions dispensed and the percentage paid by Medicaid, including adjustment for opioid-related and state-level policy covariates. Difference-in-difference modeling was performed as a sensitivity analysis. FINDINGS States that expanded Medicaid had higher unadjusted naloxone dispensing rates and Medicaid-paid percentage of naloxone in metro and nonmetro areas. Medicaid expansion was not associated with the number of naloxone dispensed in either metro (adjusted rate ratio (ARR) = 1.26, 95% CI: [0.80, 1.97]) or nonmetro (ARR = 0.67, 95% CI: [0.37, 1.19]) areas after covariate adjustment. In metro areas, Medicaid expansion was associated with a significant increase of 3.86 percentage points (95% CI: [0.09, 7.63]) in the Medicaid-paid percentage of naloxone dispensing compared to nonexpansion states, but this association was not significant in nonmetro areas. There was also a significant time by Medicaid expansion interaction on the Medicaid-paid percentage of naloxone dispensed (metro: estimate = 0.74, 95% CI: [0.36, 1.12]; nonmetro: estimate = 0.68, 95% CI: [0.17, 1.18]). CONCLUSIONS Medicaid expansion increased naloxone access by increasing the Medicaid-paid percentage of naloxone prescriptions in metro areas. States with Medicaid expansion had a faster rate of increase in the Medicaid-paid percentage of naloxone than states without Medicaid expansion in nonmetro areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Cheng
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Outcomes & Policy (IPOP), Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Patricia R Freeman
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Outcomes & Policy (IPOP), Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Emily Slade
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Minji Sohn
- College of Pharmacy, Ferris State University, Big Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Jeffery C Talbert
- Institute for Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Chris Delcher
- Institute for Pharmaceutical Outcomes & Policy (IPOP), Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Rochford B, Pendse S, Kumar N, De Choudhury M. Leveraging Symptom Search Data to Understand Disparities in US Mental Health Care: Demographic Analysis of Search Engine Trace Data. JMIR Ment Health 2023; 10:e43253. [PMID: 36716082 PMCID: PMC9926343 DOI: 10.2196/43253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, 1 out of every 3 people lives in a mental health professional shortage area. Shortage areas tend to be rural, have higher levels of poverty, and have poor mental health outcomes. Previous work has demonstrated that these poor outcomes may arise from interactions between a lack of resources and lack of recognition of mental illness by medical professionals. OBJECTIVE We aimed to understand the differences in how people in shortage and nonshortage areas search for information about mental health on the web. METHODS We analyzed search engine log data related to health from 2017-2021 and examined the differences in mental health search behavior between shortage and nonshortage areas. We analyzed several axes of difference, including shortage versus nonshortage comparisons, urban versus rural comparisons, and temporal comparisons. RESULTS We found specific differences in search behavior between shortage and nonshortage areas. In shortage areas, broader and more general mental health symptom categories, namely anxiety (mean 2.03%, SD 0.44%), depression (mean 1.15%, SD 0.27%), fatigue (mean 1.21%, SD 0.28%), and headache (mean 1.03%, SD 0.23%), were searched significantly more often (Q<.0003). In contrast, specific symptom categories and mental health disorders such as binge eating (mean 0.02%, SD 0.02%), psychosis (mean 0.37%, SD 0.06%), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (mean 0.77%, SD 0.10%) were searched significantly more often (Q<.0009) in nonshortage areas. Although suicide rates are consistently known to be higher in shortage and rural areas, we see that the rates of suicide-related searching are lower in shortage areas (mean 0.05%, SD 0.04%) than in nonshortage areas (mean 0.10%, SD 0.03%; Q<.0003), more so when a shortage area is rural (mean 0.024%, SD 0.029%; Q<2 × 10-12). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates differences in how people from geographically marginalized groups search on the web for mental health. One main implication of this work is the influence that search engine ranking algorithms and interface design might have on the kinds of resources that individuals use when in distress. Our results support the idea that search engine algorithm designers should be conscientious of the role that structural factors play in expressions of distress and they should attempt to design search engine algorithms and interfaces to close gaps in care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Rochford
- School of Interactive Computing, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sachin Pendse
- School of Interactive Computing, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Neha Kumar
- School of Interactive Computing, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Munmun De Choudhury
- School of Interactive Computing, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Roberts NB, Ager E, Leith T, Lott I, Mason-Maready M, Nix T, Gottula A, Hunt N, Brent C. Current summary of the evidence in drone-based emergency medical services care. Resusc Plus 2023; 13:100347. [PMID: 36654723 PMCID: PMC9841214 DOI: 10.1016/j.resplu.2022.100347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Interventions for many medical emergencies including cardiac arrests, strokes, drug overdoses, seizures, and trauma, are critically time-dependent, with faster intervention leading to improved patient outcomes. Consequently, a major focus of emergency medical services (EMS) systems and prehospital medicine has been improving the time until medical intervention in these time-sensitive emergencies, often by reducing the time required to deliver critical medical supplies to the scene of the emergency. Medical indications for using unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, are rapidly expanding, including the delivery of time-sensitive medical supplies. To date, the drone-based delivery of a variety of time-critical medical supplies has been evaluated, generating promising data suggesting that drones can improve the time interval to intervention through the rapid delivery of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs), naloxone, antiepileptics, and blood products. Furthermore, the improvement in the time until intervention offered by drones in out-of-hospital emergencies is likely to improve patient outcomes in time-dependent medical emergencies. However, barriers and knowledge gaps remain that must be addressed. Further research demonstrating functionality in real-world scenarios, as well as research that integrates drones into the existing EMS structure will be necessary before drones can reach their full potential. The primary aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence in drone-based Emergency Medical Services Care to help identify future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan B. Roberts
- University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA
- Corresponding authors at: Medical School, University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA.
| | - Emily Ager
- University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA
- Corresponding authors at: Medical School, University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA.
| | - Thomas Leith
- University of Michigan Medical School, 7300 Medical Science Building I—A Wing, 1301 Catherine St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Isabel Lott
- University of Michigan Medical School, 7300 Medical Science Building I—A Wing, 1301 Catherine St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Marlee Mason-Maready
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, 586 Pioneer Dr, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Tyler Nix
- University of Michigan, Taubman Health Sciences Library, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Adam Gottula
- University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA
- The University of Michigan, Department of Anesthesiology , University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 East Medical Center Dr. Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Nathaniel Hunt
- University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA
| | - Christine Brent
- University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA
- Corresponding authors at: Medical School, University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5305, USA.
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Floyd AS, Silcox J, Cousin E, Irwin AN, Gray M, Bolivar D, Bratberg J, Arnold J, Al-Jammali Z, Hansen RN, Hartung DM, Green TC. Readiness of community pharmacies to implement an opioid safety intervention. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:275-283.e1. [PMID: 36496310 PMCID: PMC9870924 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We report on efforts to measure readiness to adopt opioid safety initiatives in community pharmacies within 2 large chains. Previous studies identified lack of knowledge, confidence, or enthusiasm in addressing harm reduction efforts. We implemented an intervention that provided training to improve opioid safety. The goal was to increase naloxone prescribing and nonprescription syringe sales, reduce stigma, and decrease opioid overdoses among patients and customers. OBJECTIVES To assess pharmacy readiness for intervention delivery, by characterizing pharmacy culture around opioid safety; describing current practices and challenges interacting with patients and customers on naloxone, nonprescription syringe sales, and buprenorphine; and determining pharmacy defined goals for implementing the intervention. METHODS The sample included pharmacy managers and staff pharmacists from 2 large chains who completed a brief phone interview. Interviews consisted of Likert-scale and open-ended, theoretically driven questions. Questions focused on workplace culture, patient engagement, naloxone and buprenorphine prescribing, nonprescription syringe sales, and intervention goals. Coding categories for the open-ended questions were derived using a thematic review of responses. RESULTS A total of 163 respondents described both workplace culture and how they encourage patient opioid safety as including public health awareness, patient engagement, and naloxone prescribing. Sale of nonprescription syringes exhibited high variability: no sales barriers (53.9%), sales with barriers (21.5%), and no sales (20.9%). Half of pharmacists (50.3%) interacted with buprenorphine prescribers outside of medication fills. Most respondents (68.7%) endorsed being ready to promote the intervention. Pharmacists named goals in adopting the intervention of wanting more knowledge and educational materials, talking points with patients, and best practices for offering naloxone. CONCLUSION Community pharmacists, before implementation, described awareness of and receptiveness to opioid safety initiatives, with substantial barriers around nonprescription syringe sales. Assessed knowledge level, culture, and identified barriers that emerged in the readiness assessments can be used to tailor future pharmacy-specific programming.
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Nolte K, Romo E, Stopka TJ, Drew A, Dowd P, Del Toro-Mejias L, Bianchet E, Friedmann PD. "I've been to more of my friends' funerals than I've been to my friends' weddings": Witnessing and responding to overdose in rural Northern New England. J Rural Health 2023; 39:197-211. [PMID: 35301749 PMCID: PMC9481744 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Overdose is a leading cause of death among people who use drugs (PWUDs), but policies to reduce fatal overdose have had mixed results. Summaries of naloxone access and Good Samaritan Laws (GSLs) in prior studies provide limited information about local context. Witnessing overdoses may also be an important consideration in providing services to PWUDs, as it contributes to post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, which complicate substance use disorder treatment. METHODS We aim to estimate the prevalence and correlates of witnessing and responding to an overdose, while exploring overdose context among rural PWUD. The Drug Injection Surveillance and Care Enhancement for Rural Northern New England (DISCERNNE) mixed-methods study characterized substance use and risk behaviors in 11 rural Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire counties between 2018 and 2019. PWUD completed surveys (n = 589) and in-depth interviews (n = 22). FINDINGS Among the survey participants, 84% had ever witnessed an overdose, which was associated with probable PTSD symptoms. Overall, 51% had ever called 911 for an overdose, though some experienced criminal legal system consequences despite GSL. Although naloxone access varied, 43% had ever used naloxone to reverse an overdose. CONCLUSIONS PWUD in Northern New England commonly witnessed an overdose, which they experienced as traumatic. Participants were willing to respond to overdoses, but faced barriers to effective overdose response, including limited naloxone access and criminal legal system consequences. Equipping PWUDs with effective overdose response tools (education and naloxone) and enacting policies that further protect PWUDs from criminal legal system consequences could reduce overdose mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Nolte
- Department of Nursing, College of Health and Human Services, University of New Hampshire, Hewitt Hall, 4 Library Way, Durham, NH, 03824, USA
| | - Eric Romo
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Thomas J. Stopka
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Public Health, 136 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA
| | - Aurora Drew
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA
| | - Patrick Dowd
- Office of Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, 3601 Main Street, 3 Floor, Springfield, MA, 01199, USA
| | - Lizbeth Del Toro-Mejias
- Office of Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, 3601 Main Street, 3 Floor, Springfield, MA, 01199, USA
| | - Elyse Bianchet
- Office of Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, 3601 Main Street, 3 Floor, Springfield, MA, 01199, USA
| | - Peter D. Friedmann
- Office of Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School-Baystate, 3601 Main Street, 3 Floor, Springfield, MA, 01199, USA
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Katzman JG, Bhatt S, Comerci GD. Take-home Naloxone at Opioid Treatment Programs: A Lifesaver. J Addict Med 2022; 16:619-621. [PMID: 35220332 PMCID: PMC9653102 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Opioid-related overdose deaths have increased almost 30% in the US since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Tragically, many of these deaths could be prevented with widespread availability of naloxone. One innocuous harm-reduction strategy would be the federal government mandating the provision of take-home naloxone and brief overdose education to patients at opioid treatment programs. Take-home naloxone, for instance, may be used by a friend or a family member to save the life of the patient receiving treatment for opioid use disorder. Importantly, many studies demonstrate that patients receiving take-home naloxone at an opioid treatment program will use the naloxone to reverse an overdose of someone in their social network. Other successful indications for mandated take-home naloxone include: federal inmates leaving incarceration if they have an opioid substance use disorder diagnosis and federal police officers on active duty. This editorial describes the various organizations, medical societies, and governmental agencies who may consider making robust actionable recommendations regarding naloxone for persons with opioid use disorder. The authors strongly recommend that professional organizations include take-home naloxone as a best practice for any patient who may be at an elevated risk for an opioid overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna G Katzman
- From the Department of Neurosurgery, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, (UNMHSC), Albuquerque, NM (JGK); UNMHSC, ECHO Institute (JGK, SB, GDC); Department of Psychiatry, UNMHSC, Albuquerque, NM (SB); and Department of Internal Medicine, UNMHSC, Albuquerque, NM (GDC)
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Zang X, Bessey SE, Krieger MS, Hallowell BD, Koziol JA, Nolen S, Behrends CN, Murphy SM, Walley AY, Linas BP, Schackman BR, Marshall BDL. Comparing Projected Fatal Overdose Outcomes and Costs of Strategies to Expand Community-Based Distribution of Naloxone in Rhode Island. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2241174. [PMID: 36350649 PMCID: PMC9647481 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.41174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance In 2021, the state of Rhode Island distributed 10 000 additional naloxone kits compared with the prior year through partnerships with community-based organizations. Objective To compare various strategies to increase naloxone distribution through community-based programs in Rhode Island to identify one most effective and efficient strategy in preventing opioid overdose deaths (OODs). Design, Setting, and Participants In this decision analytical model study conducted from January 2016 to December 2022, a spatial microsimulation model with an integrated decision tree was developed and calibrated to compare the outcomes of alternative strategies for distributing 10 000 additional naloxone kits annually among all individuals at risk for opioid overdose in Rhode Island. Interventions Distribution of 10 000 additional naloxone kits annually, focusing on people who inject drugs, people who use illicit opioids and stimulants, individuals at various levels of risk for opioid overdose, or people who misuse prescription opioids vs no additional kits (status quo). Two expanded distribution implementation approaches were considered: one consistent with the current spatial distribution patterns for each distribution program type (supply-based approach) and one consistent with the current spatial distribution of individuals in each of the risk groups, assuming that programs could direct the additional kits to new geographic areas if required (demand-based approach). Main Outcomes and Measures Witnessed OODs, cost per OOD averted (efficiency), geospatial health inequality measured by the Theil index, and between-group variance for OOD rates. Results A total of 63 131 simulated individuals were estimated to be at risk for opioid overdose in Rhode Island based on current population data. With the supply-based approach, prioritizing additional naloxone kits to people who use illicit drugs averted more witnessed OODs by an estimated mean of 18.9% (95% simulation interval [SI], 13.1%-30.7%) annually. Expanded naloxone distribution using the demand-based approach and focusing on people who inject drugs had the best outcomes across all scenarios, averting an estimated mean of 25.3% (95% SI, 13.1%-37.6%) of witnessed OODs annually, at the lowest mean incremental cost of $27 312 per OOD averted. Other strategies were associated with fewer OODs averted at higher costs but showed similar patterns of improved outcomes and lower unit costs if kits could be reallocated to areas with greater need. The demand-based approach reduced geospatial inequality in OOD rates in all scenarios compared with the supply-based approach and status quo. Conclusions and Relevance In this decision analytical model study, variations in the effectiveness, efficiency, and health inequality of the different naloxone distribution expansion strategies and approaches were identified. Future efforts should be prioritized for people at highest risk for overdose (those who inject drugs or use illicit drugs) and redirected toward areas with the greatest need. These findings may inform future naloxone distribution priority settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Sam E. Bessey
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Maxwell S. Krieger
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | | | - Shayla Nolen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Czarina N. Behrends
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Sean M. Murphy
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Benjamin P. Linas
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bruce R. Schackman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Brandon D. L. Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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Gamble A, Mashburn T, Kennelty KA, Look KA, Westrick SC, Evon DM, Tudor G, Carpenter DM. Addressing the opioid epidemic through community pharmacy engagement: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2022; 121:106920. [PMID: 36096283 PMCID: PMC10731677 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.106920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the authority to dispense naloxone, pharmacists have been reluctant to offer and dispense it, often due to discomfort communicating about the sensitive topic of opioid overdose. Because existing online naloxone trainings do not sufficiently address how to communicate effectively with patients about naloxone, Nalox-Comm, a training module designed to improve pharmacists' self-efficacy to engage in naloxone discussions, was developed. OBJECTIVE To describe the study protocol to evaluate the effectiveness of the Nalox-Comm training module on naloxone dispensing rates. METHODS A randomized controlled trial, which began in July 2021, is used to evaluate the pre-post Nalox-Comm training intervention. Sixty pharmacists are being recruited from 62 pharmacies part of a single grocery store chain in rural counties of the southeastern United States. After completing a baseline survey, pharmacists are observed by simulated patients (SPs) who rate the quality of their pre-training naloxone communication. Pharmacists are then invited to complete either a basic online naloxone training module (control group) or a newly developed Nalox-Comm training (experimental group), after which they complete a post-training survey and are observed a second time by SPs. Three months post-training, study participants complete a final follow-up survey. Naloxone dispensing records are obtained from each participating pharmacy to assess change in naloxone dispensing rates. CONCLUSION Informed by rural pharmacist stakeholders, the Nalox-Comm training module addresses communication barriers specific to rural communities. Compared to those in the control group, we hypothesize that pharmacies in the experimental group will dispense more naloxone in the three months post-training intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Gamble
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 114 Karpen Hall, 1 University Heights, Campus Box 2125, Asheville, NC 28804, USA.
| | - Trish Mashburn
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 114 Karpen Hall, 1 University Heights, Campus Box 2125, Asheville, NC 28804, USA
| | - Korey A Kennelty
- University of Iowa, College of Pharmacy, 115 S Grand Ave, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Kevin A Look
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Pharmacy, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Salisa C Westrick
- Auburn University, Harrison College of Pharmacy, 2316 Walker Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Donna M Evon
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Department of Medicine, Burnett Womack Building, UNC Liver Center, Campus Box 7584, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Gail Tudor
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 114 Karpen Hall, 1 University Heights, Campus Box 2125, Asheville, NC 28804, USA
| | - Delesha M Carpenter
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 114 Karpen Hall, 1 University Heights, Campus Box 2125, Asheville, NC 28804, USA
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Biancuzzi H, Dal Mas F, Brescia V, Campostrini S, Cascella M, Cuomo A, Cobianchi L, Dorken-Gallastegi A, Gebran A, Kaafarani HM, Marinangeli F, Massaro M, Renne A, Scaioli G, Bednarova R, Vittori A, Miceli L. Opioid Misuse: A Review of the Main Issues, Challenges, and Strategies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811754. [PMID: 36142028 PMCID: PMC9517221 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, from 1999 to 2019, opioid overdose, either regularly prescribed or illegally acquired, was the cause of death for nearly 500,000 people. In addition to this pronounced mortality burden that has increased gradually over time, opioid overdose has significant morbidity with severe risks and side effects. As a result, opioid misuse is a cause for concern and is considered an epidemic. This article examines the trends and consequences of the opioid epidemic presented in recent international literature, reflecting on the causes of this phenomenon and the possible strategies to address it. The detailed analysis of 33 international articles highlights numerous impacts in the social, public health, economic, and political spheres. The prescription opioid epidemic is an almost exclusively North American problem. This phenomenon should be carefully evaluated from a healthcare systems perspective, for consequential risks and harms of aggressive opioid prescription practices for pain management. Appropriate policies are required to manage opioid use and prevent abuse efficiently. Examples of proper policies vary, such as the use of validated questionnaires for the early identification of patients at risk of addiction, the effective use of regional and national prescription monitoring programs, and the proper dissemination and translation of knowledge to highlight the risks of prescription opioid abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Biancuzzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pain Medicine, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico—IRCCS Centro di Riferimento Oncologico—CRO of Aviano, 33081 Aviano, Italy
| | - Francesca Dal Mas
- Department of Management, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30100 Venice, Italy
| | - Valerio Brescia
- Department of Management, University of Turin, 10134 Turin, Italy
- Department of Finance, Wrocław University of Economics and Business, 53-345 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Stefano Campostrini
- Department of Economics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30100 Venice, Italy
| | - Marco Cascella
- Division of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico—IRCCS, Fondazione Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Arturo Cuomo
- Division of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico—IRCCS, Fondazione Pascale, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cobianchi
- Department of Clinical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- General Surgery Department, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico—IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Ander Dorken-Gallastegi
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery and Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Anthony Gebran
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery and Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Haytham M. Kaafarani
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery and Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Franco Marinangeli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Maurizio Massaro
- Department of Management, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30100 Venice, Italy
| | - Angela Renne
- Division of Trauma, Emergency Surgery and Surgical Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Giacomo Scaioli
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Rym Bednarova
- Department of Pain Medicine, Hospital of Latisana, 33053 Latisana, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vittori
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, ARCO, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico—IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Miceli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Pain Medicine, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico—IRCCS Centro di Riferimento Oncologico—CRO of Aviano, 33081 Aviano, Italy
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Winstanley EL, Thacker EP, Choo LY, Lander LR, Berry JH, Tofighi B. Patient-reported problems filling buprenorphine prescriptions and motivations for illicit use. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2022; 5:100091. [PMID: 36844166 PMCID: PMC9949336 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2022.100091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Background While barriers to accessing buprenorphine (BUP) therapy have been well described, little is known about pharmacy-related barriers. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of patient-reported problems filling BUP prescriptions and determine whether these problems were associated with illicit use of BUP. The secondary objectives included identifying motivations for illicit BUP use and the prevalence of naloxone acquisition among patients prescribed BUP. Methods Between July 2019 and March 2020, 139 participants receiving treatment for an opioid use disorder (OUD) at two sites within a rurally-located health system, completed an anonymous 33-item survey. A multivariable model was used to assess the association between pharmacy-related problems filling BUP prescriptions and illicit substance use. Results More than a third of participants reported having problems filling their BUP prescription (34.1%, n = 47) with the most commonly reported problems being insufficient pharmacy stock of BUP (37.8%, n = 17), pharmacist refusal to dispense BUP (37.8%, n = 17), and insurance problems (34.0%, n = 16). Of those who reported illicit BUP use (41.5%, n = 56), the most common motivations were to avoid/ease withdrawal symptoms (n = 39), prevent/reduce cravings (n = 39), maintain abstinence (n = 30), and treat pain (n = 19). In the multivariable model, participants who reported a pharmacy-related problems were significantly more likely to use illicitly obtained BUP (OR=8.93, 95% CI: 3.12, 25.52, p < 0.0001). Conclusion Efforts to improve BUP access have primarily focused on increasing the number of clinicians waivered to prescribe; however, challenges persist with BUP dispensing and coordinated efforts may be needed to systematically reduce pharmacy-related barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L. Winstanley
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Corresponding author at: Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States.
| | - Emily P. Thacker
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Lyn Yuen Choo
- West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Laura R. Lander
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - James H. Berry
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Babak Tofighi
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, United States
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Holmes LM, Rishworth A, King BH. Disparities in opioid overdose survival and naloxone administration in Pennsylvania. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 238:109555. [PMID: 35810621 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pennsylvania has one of the highest opioid overdose rates in the US; however, since 2018 approximately 80% of people who experienced an opioid overdose in the state survived. More attention has been paid to opioid overdose mortality despite notable individual and geographic differences in overdose survival. Naloxone is an essential tool in increasing chances of survival after opioid overdose, but its availability and the rate at which it is administered differs by county in Pennsylvania and nationally. METHODS We use 2018-2020 Pennsylvania Overdose Information Network data on opioid incidents and where they occurred, combined with 2015-2019 American Community Survey data, to evaluate opioid overdose survival and naloxone administration by county over a three-year period. RESULTS Individuals who received at least one dose of naloxone following overdose had 11 times greater odds of survival. White, middle-aged men were least likely to survive opioid overdose. Both survival and naloxone administration rates differed by county with lower rates in less populated counties. CONCLUSION Expanding naloxone distribution and administration and ensuring proper education about standing orders for naloxone administration are important tools for addressing opioid overdose mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa M Holmes
- The Pennsylvania State University, Department of Geography, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - Andrea Rishworth
- University of Toronto Mississauga, Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Brian H King
- The Pennsylvania State University, Department of Geography, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Pollini RA, Slocum S, Ozga JE, Joyce R, Xuan Z, Green TC, Walley AY. Pharmacy naloxone codispensing: A mixed methods study of practices and perspectives under a statewide standing order program. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2022; 62:1546-1554. [PMID: 35450833 PMCID: PMC9464657 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a previous statewide naloxone purchase trial conducted in Massachusetts, we documented high levels of naloxone accessibility, upon patient request, under the state's naloxone standing order (NSO) program. Equally important for reducing overdose mortality rates is expanding naloxone access via codispensing alongside opioid prescription and syringe purchases at pharmacies. OBJECTIVE To understand naloxone codispensing from the perspective of pharmacists under the Massachusetts NSO program. METHODS The study used a mixed methods design involving 3 focus groups and a quantitative survey. Participants in both the focus groups (N = 27) and survey (N = 339) were licensed Massachusetts pharmacists. Focus groups were conducted at 3 separate professional conferences for pharmacists. The survey was conducted using a stratified random sample of 400 chain and independent retail pharmacies across Massachusetts. All data were collected between September 2018 and November 2019. Quantitative and qualitative analyses examined current policies, practices, and attitudes regarding naloxone codispensing for patients at risk of opioid overdose. RESULTS Most pharmacists (69%) reported that they, their pharmacy, or both promoted codispensing alongside opioid prescriptions. A majority promoting naloxone codispensing did so for patients prescribed high opioid dosages (80%); fewer promoted codispensing for patients also prescribed benzodiazepines (20%). Facilitators to codispensing were pre-existing relationships between pharmacists and prescribers, mandatory pharmacist consultation, and universal naloxone promotion to all patients meeting certain criteria. Barriers to codispensing were pharmacists' concerns about offending patients by initiating a conversation about naloxone, insufficient technician training, workflow and resource constraints, and misconceptions surrounding naloxone. We found no substantive differences in outcomes between chain and independent pharmacies. CONCLUSION We documented several facilitators and barriers to naloxone codispensing in Massachusetts pharmacies. Areas amenable to intervention include increased training for front-line pharmacy technicians, mandatory pharmacist consultation for opioid-prescribed patients, workflow reorganization, and addressing stigma concerns on the pharmacist end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin A. Pollini
- Associate Professor (pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV
- Associate Professor, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University
| | - Susannah Slocum
- Associate Professor (pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV
| | - Jenny E. Ozga
- Associate Professor (pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV
| | - Rebecca Joyce
- Associate Professor (pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV
| | - Ziming Xuan
- Associate Professor, Department of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston MA
| | - Traci C. Green
- Professor, The Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, Institute of Behavioral Health, Heller School for Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA
| | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Professor, Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA
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Hohmann LA, Fox BI, Garza KB, Wang CH, Correia C, Curran GM, Westrick SC. Impact of a Multicomponent Educational Intervention on Community Pharmacy-Based Naloxone Services Implementation: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial. Ann Pharmacother 2022; 57:677-695. [PMID: 36047381 DOI: 10.1177/10600280221120405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite US naloxone access laws, community pharmacists lack training and confidence in providing naloxone. OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of the Empowering Community Pharmacists program on pharmacists' knowledge, perceived barriers, attitudes, confidence, and intentions regarding naloxone services implementation, as well as naloxone prescriptions dispensed. METHODS A 3-month pragmatic randomized controlled trial was conducted from December 2018 to March 2019. Alabama community pharmacists were recruited by mail, email, phone, and fax and randomized to intervention (monthly resources/reminders + educational webinar) or control (monthly reminders only). Outcome measures were assessed via online surveys at baseline (T1), immediately post-intervention (T2), and 3 months post-intervention (T3), including naloxone knowledge (%correct); perceived barriers, attitudes, confidence, and intention regarding naloxone services implementation (7-point Likert-type scale; 1 = strongly disagree, 7 = strongly agree); and number of naloxone prescriptions dispensed. Mean differences between control and intervention from T1 to T3 were assessed using 2-way mixed analysis of variance and adjusted analyses were conducted using generalized estimating equations with negative binomial distribution to assess associations between variables. RESULTS Of 55 participants (n = 27 intervention, n = 28 control), most were female (80.3%), white (80.6%), in independently owned pharmacies (39.1%). Increases in mean [SD] confidence (5.52 [1.03]-6.16 [0.74], P < 0.0005) and intention (5.35 [1.51]-6.10 [0.96], P = 0.023) occurred from pre- to post-program within the intervention group and were statistically significant compared with control (confidence P = 0.016, intention P = 0.014). Confidence (exp(β) = 1.46, P = 0.031) and perceived barriers (exp(β) = 0.75, P = 0.022) were associated with number of naloxone prescriptions dispensed. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE The Empowering Community Pharmacists program improved community pharmacists' confidence and intention regarding naloxone services implementation. Other states can adapt program elements according to their laws. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER NCT05093309.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A Hohmann
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Brent I Fox
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Kimberly B Garza
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Chih-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Educational Foundations, Leadership, and Technology, Auburn University College of Education, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Christopher Correia
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University College of Liberal Arts, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Curran
- Departments of Pharmacy Practice and Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Salisa C Westrick
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
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Peet ED, Powell D, Pacula RL. Trends in Out-of-Pocket Costs for Naloxone by Drug Brand and Payer in the US, 2010-2018. JAMA HEALTH FORUM 2022; 3:e222663. [PMID: 36200636 PMCID: PMC9391964 DOI: 10.1001/jamahealthforum.2022.2663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance Improving access to naloxone is a critical component of the nation's strategy to curb fatal overdoses in the opioid crisis. Standing or protocol orders, prescriptive authority laws, and immunity provisions have been passed by states to expand access, but less attention has been given to potential financial barriers to naloxone access. Objective To assess trends in out-of-pocket (OOP) costs for naloxone and examine variation in OOP costs by drug brand and payer. Design, Setting, and Participants This observational study analyzed US naloxone claims data from Symphony Health and associated OOP costs for individuals filling naloxone prescriptions by drug brand and payer between January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2018. The data were analyzed from March 31, 2021, to April 12, 2022. Main Outcomes and Measures The main measures were trends in annual number of naloxone claims (overall, by payer, and by drug brand) and mean annual OOP costs per claim (overall, by payer, and by drug brand). Results Of 719 612 naloxone claims (172 894 generic naloxone, 501 568 Narcan, and 45 150 Evzio) for 2010 through 2018, the number of naloxone claims among insured patients began rapidly increasing after 2014; at the same time, the mean OOP cost of naloxone increased dramatically among the uninsured population. Comparing 2014 with 2018, the mean OOP cost of naloxone decreased by 26% among those with insurance but increased by 506% among uninsured patients. For the uninsured population, the impediment of cost was even larger for certain brands of the drug. In 2016, the mean OOP cost for Evzio among uninsured patients rose to $2136.37 (a 2429% increase relative to 2015) compared with the mean cost of generic naloxone, $72.88, and the cost of Narcan in its first year, $87.95. Throughout the period, the mean OOP costs paid by uninsured patients were higher for Evzio at $1089.17 (95% CI, $884.17-$1294.17) compared with $73.62 (95% CI, $69.24-$78.00) for Narcan and $67.99 (95% CI, $61.42-$74.56) for generic naloxone. Conclusions and Relevance In this observational study, the findings indicated that the OOP cost of naloxone had been an increasingly substantial barrier to naloxone access for uninsured patients, potentially limiting use among this population, which constituted approximately 20% of adults with opioid use disorder.
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Binswanger IA, Rinehart D, Mueller SR, Narwaney KJ, Stowell M, Wagner N, Xu S, Hanratty R, Blum J, McVaney K, Glanz JM. Naloxone Co-Dispensing with Opioids: a Cluster Randomized Pragmatic Trial. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:2624-2633. [PMID: 35132556 PMCID: PMC9411391 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-07356-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although naloxone prevents opioid overdose deaths, few patients prescribed opioids receive naloxone, limiting its effectiveness in real-world settings. Barriers to naloxone prescribing include concerns that naloxone could increase risk behavior and limited time to provide necessary patient education. OBJECTIVE To determine whether pharmacy-based naloxone co-dispensing affected opioid risk behavior. Secondary objectives were to assess if co-dispensing increased naloxone acquisition, increased patient knowledge about naloxone administration, and affected opioid dose and other substance use. DESIGN Cluster randomized pragmatic trial of naloxone co-dispensing. SETTING Safety-net health system in Denver, Colorado, between 2017 and 2020. PARTICIPANTS Seven pharmacies were randomized. Pharmacy patients (N=768) receiving opioids were followed using automated data for 10 months. Pharmacy patients were also invited to complete surveys at baseline, 4 months, and 8 months; 325 survey participants were enrolled from November 15, 2017, to January 8, 2019. INTERVENTION Intervention pharmacies implemented workflows to co-dispense naloxone while usual care pharmacies provided usual services. MAIN MEASURES Survey instruments assessed opioid risk behavior; hazardous drinking; tobacco, cannabis, and other drug use; and knowledge. Naloxone dispensings and opioid dose were evaluated using pharmacy data among pharmacy patients and survey participants. Intention-to-treat analyses were conducted using generalized linear mixed models accounting for clustering at the pharmacy level. KEY RESULTS Opioid risk behavior did not differ by trial group (P=0.52; 8-month vs. baseline adjusted risk ratio [ARR] 1.07; 95% CI 0.78, 1.47). Compared with usual care pharmacies, naloxone dispensings were higher in intervention pharmacies (ARR 3.38; 95% CI 2.21, 5.15) and participant knowledge increased (P=0.02; 8-month vs. baseline adjusted mean difference 1.05; 95% CI 0.06, 2.04). There was no difference in other substance use by the trial group. CONCLUSION Co-dispensing naloxone with opioids effectively increased naloxone receipt and knowledge but did not increase self-reported risk behavior. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov ; Identifier: NCT03337100.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid A Binswanger
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Colorado Permanente Medical Group, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, CA, USA.
| | - Deborah Rinehart
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Denver Health, Center for Health Systems Research, Office of Research, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Shane R Mueller
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Komal J Narwaney
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Melanie Stowell
- Denver Health, Center for Health Systems Research, Office of Research, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Nicole Wagner
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Stan Xu
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca Hanratty
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Medicine, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Josh Blum
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Medicine, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Kevin McVaney
- Department of Medicine, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Jason M Glanz
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
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Wunderlich JR, Engelberg RS, Tofighi B, Schwartz MD. Time for Pharmacy Co-dispensing of Naloxone with Prescribed Opioids? J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:2621-2623. [PMID: 35581455 PMCID: PMC9411499 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07643-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel S Engelberg
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Babak Tofighi
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Bellevue Hospital Center Division of General Internal Medicine, Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatry Research, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark D Schwartz
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Antoniou T, Men S, Tadrous M, Leece P, Munro C, Gomes T. Impact of a publicly funded pharmacy-dispensed naloxone program on fatal opioid overdose rates: A population-based study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 236:109473. [PMID: 35523113 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies examining the impact of pharmacy-dispensed naloxone programs on fatal opioid overdose rates are lacking. We examined the impact of the publicly funded Ontario Naloxone Program for Pharmacies (ONPP), implemented in June 2016, on provincial rates of opioid overdose deaths. METHODS We conducted a population-based interrupted time-series study between July 1, 2012 and December 31, 2018. We considered a parsimonious model with terms for time, ONPP implementation, and time following the ONPP implementation. Models were adjusted for population characteristics, number of pharmacies and rate of naloxone distributed through non-pharmacy sites within provincial public health units. RESULTS In the parsimonious model, the ONPP was associated with a non-significant 9% reduction in the level of fatal opioid overdoses (rate ratio [RR] 0.91; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.79-1.06), a finding that was most pronounced in regions in the lowest tertile of implementation (RR 0.75; 95% CI 0.62-0.91). Following multivariable adjustment, there was an increase in the level (RR 1.06; 95% CI 0.94-1.19) and slope change (RR 1.06; 95% CI 1.02-1.10) of fatal overdose rates. CONCLUSION The ONPP is insufficient as a single intervention to meaningfully reduce rates of fatal opioid overdoses during a period in which the cause of these deaths shifted from prescription opioids to highly potent fentanyl analogs. Access to additional harm reduction, treatment, and other interventions is necessary to prevent deaths and optimize the health of people who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Antoniou
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Family and Community Medicine, Unity Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Mina Tadrous
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Women's College Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pamela Leece
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Public Health Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Charlotte Munro
- Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tara Gomes
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Ontario Drug Policy Research Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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50
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Corry B, Underwood N, Cremer LJ, Rooks-Peck CR, Jones C. County-level sociodemographic differences in availability of two medications for opioid use disorder: United States, 2019. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 236:109495. [PMID: 35605533 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differences in availability of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) buprenorphine and methadone exist. Factors that may influence such differences in availability include sociodemographic characteristics but research in this area is limited. We explore the association between county-level sociodemographic factors and MOUD treatment availability. METHODS County-level Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) data were used to determine the presence or absence of buprenorphine treatment or opioid treatment programs (OTPs) and the level of availability of these types of treatment in a county. Hurdle models were used to examine the associations of our covariates with any MOUD treatment availability and level of available treatment. RESULTS The odds of a county having OTP availability were higher for counties with higher percentages of non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic populations and higher drug overdose death rates. Counties with higher percentages of persons in poverty and drug overdose death rates had higher odds of maximum potential buprenorphine treatment capacity, while counties with high percentages of persons without health insurance, with disability, and rural counties had lower odds. CONCLUSIONS There are significant differences in the county-level availability of OTPs and buprenorphine treatment. Our findings expand on prior studies illustrating that barriers to accessing treatment persist and are not evenly distributed among sociodemographic groups, further study is needed to examine if barriers of availability translate to barriers in receiving treatment. Given the escalating overdose crisis in the U.S., expanding equitable availability of MOUD is critical. Informed strategies are needed to reach areas and populations in greatest need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Corry
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Natasha Underwood
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Laura J Cremer
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cherie R Rooks-Peck
- Division of Overdose Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christopher Jones
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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