CDC www.cdc.gov recently launched a new program to help states end the ongoing prescription drug overdose epidemic. The new “Prevention for States” program is going to invest in 16 states to make the resources and the expertise needed to help prevent overdose deaths related to prescription opioids.
“The prescription drug overdose epidemic is tragic and costly, but can be reversed,” said CDC Director Tom Frieden, MD. “Since we can protect people from becoming addicted to opioids, we must take fast action now, with real-time tracking programs, safer prescribing practices, and rapid response.”
CDC is committing $20 million to advance prevention on multiple fronts. The states selected for funding include Arizona, California, Illinois, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
Over the next four years, CDC plans to give states annual awards between $750,000 and $1 million each year subject to the availability of funds. Areas to be funded include:
- Improving prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMP)
- Putting prevention into action in communities nationwide and encouraging the education of providers and patients on the risk of prescription drug overdose
- Working with health systems, insurers, and professional providers to help them make informed decisions about prescribing pain medication
- Responding to new and emerging drug overdose issues through innovative projects, by developing new surveillance systems or communications campaigns
Go to www.cdc.gov/DrugOverdose to learn more about CDC’s efforts to curb drug overdose by equipping healthcare providers with data, tools, and guidance.