Opioid prescriptions declined in 2013, 2014 and 2015, indicating the opioid prescription boom may have hit its peak, according to the report. Data from IMS health shows a 12 percent decline in prescriptions since 2012 levels, while another data set from Symphony Health Solutions shows there has been an 18 percent drop over the same time period.
The IMS report shows prescriptions have fallen in 49 states except South Dakota, according to the report. The largest declines have been in West Virginia, what is considered the epicenter of the opioid problem, as well as Texas and Oklahoma, according to the report.
Unfortunately, the decline in prescriptions has not yet translated into a decline in deaths. Fatal overdoses from opioids are still growing, according to the report.
Read the full report here.
More articles on quality and infection control:
10 most interesting clinical research findings to know this week
Technology exists for global early warning infectious disease system, experts say
Expert forecasts global cardiovascular mortality rates through 2025: 5 takeaways
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.