Today’s issue of WorkCompRecap features a couple of opioid related developments from state bodies, starting with the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission’s announcement of its adoption of a drug formulary which regulates all outpatient medications prescribed as a result of work-related injuries. The rule draws on a formulary already in use for state government employees who are injured on the job, with additional provisions for opioid prescriptions based on guidelines established by the CDC. The rule applies to new injuries occurring on or after July 1, 2018. Find out more by clicking here!
Next up is the North Carolina Industrial Commission’s announcement of its adoption of rules for the workers’ compensation system addressing the opioid crisis. The commission noted that the rules for utilization of opioids, related prescriptions, and pain management treatment are proactive measures aimed at curtailing opioid misuse and addiction in workers’ comp claims. Attributes include limits on number of days supply and MEDs, as well as restricting initial prescriptions for certain drugs in the acute phases of injury. Find out more by clicking here!