Redesigning delivery of opioids to optimize pain management, improve outcomes, and contain costs

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic pain is a public health concern, and in the last decade, there has been a dramatic increase in the use and abuse of prescription opioids for chronic non-cancer pain.

Methods: We present an overview of a five-component model of pain management implemented at the University of Washington Division of Pain Medicine designed to facilitate recent state guidelines to reduce the risks associated with long-term use of prescription opioids.

Results: Central to the model described are guidelines for best clinical practice, a collaborative care approach, telehealth solutions, comprehensive prescription-monitoring, and measurement-based care.

Discussion: The model presented is a patient-centered, efficient, and cost-effective approach to the management of chronic pain.