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. 2017 Jun 20;17(1):420.
doi: 10.1186/s12913-017-2354-5.

Evaluating the impact of prescription drug monitoring program implementation: a scoping review

Erin P Finley  1   2 , Ashley Garcia  3 , Kristen Rosen  3 , Don McGeary  3 , Mary Jo Pugh  3   4 , Jennifer Sharpe Potter  3
Affiliations

Evaluating the impact of prescription drug monitoring program implementation: a scoping review

Erin P Finley et al. BMC Health Serv Res. .

Abstract

Background: Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) have been implemented in 49 out of 50 states in an effort to reduce opioid-related misuse, abuse, and mortality, yet the literature evaluating the impact of PDMP implementation remains limited. We conducted a scoping review to: (1) describe available evidence regarding impact of PDMPs in the U.S.; and (2) propose a conceptual model to inform future PDMP implementation and evaluation efforts.

Methods: Scoping systematic review following Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) methodology. We identified 11 relevant studies based on inclusion criteria using a PubMed database search of English-language studies published 1/1/2000-5/31/16. Data were extracted and thematic analysis conducted to synthesize results.

Results: Extant evidence for the impact of PDMPs as an opioid risk mitigation tool remains mixed. Thematic analysis revealed four domains of opioid-related outcomes frequently examined in original studies evaluating PDMP implementation: (1) opioid prescribing; (2) opioid diversion and supply; (3) opioid misuse; and (4) opioid-related morbidity and mortality. An evaluation framework incorporating these domains is presented that highlights significant gaps in empirical research across each of these domains.

Conclusions: Evidence for the impact of state-level PDMPs remains mixed. We propose a conceptual model for evaluating PDMP implementation toward the goals of clarifying PDMP mechanisms of impact, identifying characteristics of PDMPs associated with best outcomes, and maximizing the utility of PDMP policy and implementation to reduce opioid-related public health burden.

Keywords: Evaluation; Health policy; Opioid Risk Mitigation; Prescription Monitoring Program; Scoping Review.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Article Identification and Selection Process (Adapted from PRISMA (Moher, [24])). *Figure Note: Prior to submission, an updated search for newly published research through 05/31/2016 was conducted by the authors using the same strategy for search and review, resulting in the addition of one article meeting inclusion criteria. The final number of articles included was 11
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Conceptual Model of the Impact of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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