Government's New Policy: A Step Towards Opioid Control
Recovery starts with a call: call 1-800-662-HELP or visit battlingopioids.org
Imagine needing pain relief but finding out your prescription can only last a week. That's the new reality for many under the Trump Administration's latest policy change. In this episode of Battling Opioids, we dive into how the government's employee health plan is tightening its grip on prescription opioid painkillers. Starting this fall, initial prescriptions will be capped at a seven-day supply, with up to three additional seven-day refills allowed.
This move aims to curb the opioid crisis that's hit Pennsylvania particularly hard, a state already grappling with one of the highest overdose death rates in the nation. Prescription painkillers, while effective for managing pain, have unfortunately become a gateway to addiction for countless individuals. This policy change marks a significant step towards protecting patients while still addressing their pain management needs.
The federal employee health benefits program, which covers millions including workers, retirees, and their families, is now on the frontline of this battle. But policy changes alone aren't enough. Enter Geisinger, a medical center in Pennsylvania committed to reducing opioid addiction through both prevention and treatment. Over the past three years, Geisinger has slashed its opioid prescriptions by a significant margin and has opened four medication-assisted treatment centers across the state.
This episode isn't just about policy; it's about real efforts making a tangible difference. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, remember that recovery starts with a call. Dial 1-800-662-HELP or visit battlingopioids.org for resources and support. The fight against the opioid crisis is far from over, but with these steps, there's hope on the horizon.