The study, entitled “America’s Opioid Epidemic and Its Effect on the Nation’s Commercially Insured Population,” represents a comprehensive assessment of BCBS medical claims from members using opioids and members diagnosed with opioid use disorder. Researchers also found 21 percent of BCBS members filled at least one opioid prescription in 2015, and members who filled high dosage opioid prescription had higher rates of opioid use disorder.
“Opioid use disorder is a complex issue, and there is no single approach to solving it,” said Trent Haywood, MD, senior vice president and CMO for BCBSA, in an emailed release. “It will take a collaborative effort among medical professionals, insurers, employers, communities and all levels of government working together to develop solutions that effectively meet community needs.”
More articles on opioids:
Ohio city council member suggests withholding emergency care for those who repeatedly overdose on opioids
Medicaid-covered prescriptions for opioid addiction and overdoses surge by 136% in 5 years
Synthetic opioid residue poses public health risk, say Georgia police
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