College helps with prescribing opioids
Re: “Patients caught in crossfire of opioid war,” column, Dec. 7. I write to correct some inaccuracies reported in the column by Jack Knox.
The Safe Prescribing of Opioids and Sedatives standard has, as its principal objective, primary prevention of opioid addiction, overdose and other harms from the use of such medications. Neither the document nor its previous versions set limits or absolutes on prescribing. Physicians are expected to use their professional judgment when prescribing opioids or sedatives.
In situations where these medications are initiated, the college directs physicians to do so appropriately. This means completing proper patient assessments, holding and documenting discussions with patients about the risks of the medications, taking full histories and learning about what other drugs patients are taking (illicit and prescription), reviewing patients’ PharmaNet profiles, scheduling followup visits, advising patients not to mix opioids with alcohol and other substances, and tapering safely.
Prescribing is complex. Even the most seasoned physicians find prescribing of certain drugs challenging. To assist, the college works collaboratively with physicians through the Prescription Review Program to ensure prescribing patterns are consistent with best practice.
The college does not take a punitive approach, and does not wish to deter physicians from prescribing opioids and sedatives responsibly. The college takes a collegial, educational, and remedial approach to enhance safe prescribing, and provides a prescribers course, along with other educational offerings. Physicians will not have their licences suspended or taken away for doing their best under difficult circumstances. Heidi M. Oetter, MD Registrar and CEO College of Physicians and Surgeons of B.C.