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.

Advertisement

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’ 

Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit

Advertisement

Next Up in Public Health

Advertisement

Comments are closed.