Pain Medicine News: 4 Steps Every Provider Must Take Before Prescribing an Opioid

Pain Medicine News publishes attorney Ronald W. Chapman II and Jeremy L. Belanger’s guide to “4 Steps Every Provider Must Take Before Prescribing an Opioid”.

While improper prescribing can carry serious consequences, providers should not be scared to prescribe opioids when appropriate. This guide aims to help providers who prescribe opioids properly document their considerations in case their prescribing is later scrutinized.

The four steps include:

1. Initial Assessment
2.  Informed Consent and Treatment Agreement
3. Initiating and Monitoring Treatment
4. Red Flags and Aberrant/Diversionary Behavior