Implementation of an Opioid Guideline Impacts on Opioid Prescriptions, Adverse Outcomes, and an Association with a State Opioid-Related Fatalities.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of an evidence-based opioid guidelines-based program implemented at the largest worker's compensation insurer in Utah.

METHODS

All new claims, including surgeries, were included. Pre- and post-intervention comparisons included percentage of claims treated with an opioid, provision of a second opioid prescription, opioid use above 50 mg morphine equivalent dose (MED), opioid use more than 90 mg MED, and opioid use over 90 days.

RESULTS

There were significant (P < 0.001) reductions in all primary outcomes, with a reduction in MEDs in the 18 months after implementation totaling 65,502 mg.

CONCLUSION

This program significantly reduced the usage of opioids among acute claims. The year of program implementation, Utah experienced a 19.8% reduction in opioid-related fatalities, which may be partly related to the reduction in MEDs. Regardless, this study suggests that the implementation of an evidence-based guideline is impactful and feasible.