3AE5219F2E1BB96B872582E900635705 Hearing Summary

Dr. Don Stader, American College of Emergency Physicians, presented to the committee on opioid prescribing in the emergency department. He updated the committee on results of the Colorado Hospital Association's (CHA) opioid safety pilot program, which was administered in ten Colorado hospitals for a six month duration.  He explained that the pilot program had reduced the use of opioid administration in the emergency department and that patient satisfaction has not decreased due to the policy.

Dr. Stader explained that CHA is encouraging all hospitals to utilize alternatives to opioids in emergency departments.  He discussed his experience training clinicians and providers on alternatives to opioids.  Dr. Stader noted recognition that CHA has received due to the success of the pilot program.

Dr. Stader described the Denver Health emergency department induction program that enrolls participants in MAT treatment immediately.  He explained that two more hospital systems will roll out programs to transition SUD patients into MAT treatment.  Dr. Stader described efforts related to naloxone distribution and reducing SUD stigma.

Dr. Stader responded to questions about a patient satisfaction survey, the cost and insurance coverage of alternatives to opioids, and barriers to providing MAT in a hospital setting.

Representative Pettersen recessed the committee for lunch.