PO - Expand & Enhance Prescription Drug Monitoring Progams
Return to Expand & Enhance Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
Go to Measure Details
Examples of a Description for this Objective
Increase Use of the PDMP among Healthcare Providers
Evidence
Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) are state-run electronic databases used to track the prescribing and dispensing of controlled prescription drugs to patients. They are designed to monitor this information for suspected abuse or diversion (i.e., channeling drugs into illegal use), and can give a prescriber or pharmacist critical information regarding a patient’s controlled substance prescription history. This information can help prescribers and pharmacists identify patients at high-risk who would benefit from early interventions.
Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) are state-run electronic databases used to track the prescribing and dispensing of controlled prescription drugs to patients. They are designed to monitor this information for suspected abuse or diversion (i.e., channeling drugs into illegal use), and can give a prescriber or pharmacist critical information regarding a patient’s controlled substance prescription history. This information can help prescribers and pharmacists identify patients at high-risk who would benefit from early interventions.
PDMPs continue to be among the most promising state-level interventions to improve opioid prescribing, inform clinical practice, and protect patients at risk. Additional research is needed to evaluate PDMP practices and policies to identify best practices.
To learn more:
CDC- [1]
CDC- [1]
Examples of a From-To Gap
| Current State | Desired State |
| Currently, not all providers utilize the PDMP system which leads to major gaps in prevention of "doctor shopping". Meaning that those who are addicted to opioids get prescriptions filled for the same medication by multiple doctors, which can lead to overdose or other illicit drug use. | All providers use the PDMP system as a way to track prescribing and dispensing of controlled medication to their patients and ensure those at risk are identified early and get the help they need. |
| Not all patients are tracked on the PDMP system by providers | All patients are tracked on the PDMP system by providers |
| Doctor shopping occurs on a frequent basis as individuals know that they may not get caught | Doctor shopping no longer occurs as patients are tracked and monitored by all their providers |
