The first nationwide benchmark study measuring the health care industry’s progress in combating the opioid crisis was released. This important baseline analysis shows the positive steps clinicians and insurance plans have taken together – and identifies specific actions that can be taken to reduce addiction and abuse.
For payers, identifying doctors who write more opioid prescriptions can be key for any successful opioid management program. Using the one factor influencing opioid prescription habits, payers can target education improving the overall provider network performance. Physicians trained at the United States’ lowest-ranked medical schools write more opioid prescriptions than physicians trained at the highest-ranked schools, according to a study by Princeton University.
New research shows that wearable biosensors have a limited impact on clinical outcomes. But digital health researchers aren't ready to abandon the promise of mobile technology.
The AMA's latest National Economic Impact of Physicians report provides data that can be used by key health care policymakers, legislators and thought leaders. It also demonstrates how physician practices both ensure the health and well-being of communities as well as support local economies and enable jobs, growth and prosperity.
Payers are stretched to the breaking point trying to manage the onslaught of substance use disorder cases. It’s more important than ever to acquire accurate data to help payers and policy makers establish effective and long-lasting opioid crisis measures.
The benefits of putting an end to the opioid crisis burden exceeded $95 billion in 2016 according to an analysis released by Altarum, underscoring the importance of swift investment in evidence-based interventions.
While health plans encourage wearables, the assessment of the benefits of wearables has been the target of several recent studies. Researches are interested in discovering the “stickiness” of the devices and their effect on wellness program success. The studies note that the Inside employer and payer wellness programs as well as the independent user reflect positively.
A recent study from the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy has uncovered a disturbing prescribing trend in prescribing opioids for nonmalignant chronic pain (defined as pain lasting for more than three months not associated with cancer). The study adds definition to the opioid landscape starting with pain and possibly leading to addiction.
States have broad authority to influence and regulate the prescribing and dispensing of prescription drugs and do so in a variety of ways. CDC provides data and resources to equip and inform states about putting into practice strategies that help prevent high-risk prescribing and improve treatment for battles against opioid addiction and overdose.
The extent of the opioid crisis means years of work, resources, and programming from payers, providers, and patients. A recent effort, funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, conducted a literature review and interviewed insurers, providers, and patient advocates looking for the most current efforts, data, and experiences from the frontlines of the opioid crisis.