i_opioidsubstance_2018a_2018-08-22t09:41:55z2 Hearing Summary

Dana Malick, PhRMA, discussed the steps pharmaceutical manufacturers are taking to participate in a solution to the opioid crisis.  Ms. Malick referred to a PowerPoint throughout her presentation [Attachment D].  She discussed PhRMA's public policy strategies to combat the opioid crisis, including ensuring patients with legitimate medical needs have access to appropriate pain treatment options and ensuring patients vulnerable to abuse or addiction receive appropriate treatment.  She discussed the seven-day prescribing limit for opioids, mandatory prescriber training, and access to a range of options to treat drug addiction.

Ms. Malick continued her presentation and responded to questions.  Committee members discussed drug pricing and the low cost of opioids, drug abuse deterrents, alternative pain management medications, certified additiction counselors, and access to addiction treatment.

Committee questions and discussion continued.  The committee discussed prescriber training and continuing education for prescribers, collaborative solutions for treatment and recovery funding, and PhRMA's position on basing pain management on a fact-based standard rather than on the fifth vital sign standard.