Washington, DC – The American Insurance Association (AIA) recently testified in support of the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Act (HB 130/SB 63) currently under consideration in the Missouri State Legislature. AIA’s testimony, delivered by its Missouri counsel Richard Brownlee to the House Health Insurance Committee, included a statement from John L. Eadie. Mr. Eadie is a recognized national expert who has provided leadership on prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) for 30 years. PDMPs are credited with improving clinical decision-making and patient care while also reducing inappropriate prescribing, especially with concern to state workers’ compensation systems. Missouri remains the only state in the nation which does not yet employ a PDMP.
“AIA strongly supports enactment of a much-needed PDMP in Missouri,” said Richard Brownlee. “As we have seen throughout the rest of the nation, PDMPs have successfully reduced fraud and abuse while improving health outcomes.”
HB 130/SB 63 would require the reporting of all Schedule II, III and IV controlled substances. According to Eadie’s statement, states have found this to be the essential minimum if a PDMP is to effectively assist prescribers and pharmacists in making informed clinical decisions, as well as law enforcement, licensing agencies for healthcare professionals, public health departments, substance abuse treatment agencies and other PDMP data users in protecting public health and safety. In addition, Eadie suggests Missouri consider adding additional important data elements contained in the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Model Act, 2010 Revision. These elements include the number of refills ordered, patient gender, and the person who receives the prescription, if other than the patient.
“AIA thanks Representative Holly Rehder and Senator David Sater for introducing this important and necessary legislation,” said Brownlee. “The health and safety of Missouri’s citizens will be better protected upon its enactment.”
Source: AIA