Missouri is the only state in the U.S. that does not have a comprehensive Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. The Narcotics Control Act /Missouri State Legislation HB 188 could add the PDMP resource to the toolkit to combat the state's Opioid epidemic. HB188 has recently passed the Missouri House, has been sent to the Missouri Senate, and is awaiting to be scheduled for its first reading.
Narcotics Control Act / Missouri State Legislation HB 188
A Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) is an electronic database that tracks controlled substance prescriptions in the state. PDMPs can provide health authorities timely information about prescribing and patient behaviors that contribute to the epidemic and facilitate a nimble and targeted response.
HB188 would enact legislation directing the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to establish and maintain a program for the monitoring of prescribing and dispensing of all Schedule II, III, and IV controlled substances by professionals licensed to prescribe or dispense such substances in this state. The funding of the narcotics control program shall be subject to appropriations.
PDMPs continue to be among the most promising state-level interventions to improve opioid prescribing, inform clinical practice, and protect patients at risk. Although findings are mixed, evaluations of PDMPs have illustrated changes in prescribing behaviors, use of multiple providers by patients, and decreased substance abuse treatment admissions. States have implemented a range of ways to make PDMPs easier to use and access, and these changes have significant potential for ensuring that the utility and promise of PDMPs are realized.
For more information on this bill visit: https://legiscan.com/MO/bill/HB188/2019