A naloxone kit. Photo by Nabarun Dasgupta / Harm Reduction Coalition
The Indian Health Service has adopted a new policy aimed at curbing prescription opioid abuse. Effective immediately, the IHS will be required to check state-run prescription drug monitoring programs before prescribing or dispensing any opioid for more than seven days. "Checking a PDMP before prescribing helps to improve appropriate pain management care, identify patients who may have an opioid use disorder and prevent diversion of drugs," the White House announced on Wednesday. Last December, the IHS and the Bureau of Indian Affairs started a partnership to equip police officers with naloxone kits. Naloxone can reverse the effects of overdoses from opiates like heroin and can prevent deaths.
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