The Massachusetts Medical Society thanks Sen.
Markey for his leadership and partnership in addressing the opioid
epidemic over the last several years, and for taking additional action
today in proposing this important legislation.
The introduction and adoption of opioid
prescription labeling that communicates explicitly that all patients
taking opioids risk addiction and accidental overdose would provide an
additional means by which physicians can strive to meet our obligation
and our responsibility to inform patients of those risks.
Labeling is a valuable safeguard, which can serve
to augment patient-physician conversations about the appropriate
clinical use and dangers of opioid medication. The importance of
educating a patient about treatment cannot be overstated, and labeling
reinforces the message that there are serious risks associated with
taking opioids.
The Medical Society has supported staunchly
“partial-fill” requirements, increased access to medication-assisted
treatment, the expanded availability of naloxone and rigid training for
those who prescribe opioids.
The physician-members of the Massachusetts
Medical Society have vowed to champion and advise on legislation, such
as Sen. Markey’s opioid labeling bill, that can protect our patients,
save lives and reduce harm and death resulting from the opioid epidemic
that has brought tragedy to too many of our families and friends.
