Blue Shield of California members' opioid use falls 32% during narcotic safety program

San Francisco-based Blue Shield of California reported a 32 percent decrease in opioid consumption among noncancer members during the first two years of its narcotic safety initiative.

Blue Shield of California's three-year narcotic safety program aims to "achieve prudent prescribing and proactive management of opioids; increase access to programs that manage pain, addiction and substance abuse; and reduce fraud, waste and abuse," the payer said.

In addition to an overall decrease in opioid consumption, Blue Shield of California recorded a 46.8 percent decrease in the number of members on high dose opioids. The average dose for chronic users dropped 17.8 percent as well. 

More articles on opioids:
HHS issues 16 grants to curb opioid misuse among females
Gov. Christie signs package of bills to address New Jersey's opioid crisis 
Sen. Schumer says Trump opioid commission is 'dragging its feet' 

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