Mnookin said states should consider requiring patients with substance abuse histories to see an addiction specialist after receiving pain medication to prevent a relapse.
“In my case, I would not have written a directive,” he said. “But, the fact that this legislation is being introduced means there’s awareness of the necessity of having more conversations, having people outside of an addiction specialist being aware of people’s histories.”
Sue Kruczek, of Guilford, Connecticut, has worked to pass opioid legislation since her 20-year-old son Nick died in 2013 of a heroin overdose following an addiction to prescription drugs.
“It seems like the hospitals are unaware of the history,” she said.
In Massachusetts, a patient, or the patient’s guardian or health care agent, signs a one-page form that states: “I am refusing at my own insistence the offer or administration of any opioid medications including in an emergency situation where I am unable to speak for myself.” The person also agrees they understand the risks of refusing and release the health care professionals “from any responsibility for all consequences.”
The directive, which must also be signed by the health care practitioner, became available in January. The Pennsylvania directive is still being developed.
Pennsylvania state Rep. Ed Gainey, a Democrat, proposed the directive legislation. Representing a section of Allegheny County that’s seen hundreds of opioid overdose deaths over the past two years, Gainey said he sees the directive as a patients’ rights issue, an opportunity to empower people who may fear relapsing into addiction, but also becoming addicted.
“My whole thing is, ‘how can we give patients more control over their destiny?'” he said. “A lot of people are more aware now and while they’re more aware, it’s good that we let them know they have an option to opt out and not receive prescription drugs.”
Article Appeared @http://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/opioids-clearing-refuse-prescriptions-46235606