i_opioidsubstance_2017a_2017-09-12t09:06:11z6 Hearing Summary
Date: 09/12/2017
Location: RM 271
Use of Opioid Medications in Other Care Settings
OPIOID AND OTHER SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS
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01:54 PM -- Use of Opioid Medications in Other Care Settings
Becky Keller, Pathways Hospice, and Brad Evans, Hospice and Palliative Care Association of the Rockies, presented to the committee. Ms. Keller discussed pain management for patients in hospice care. She explained safe medication disposal after the death of a patient. Mr. Evans described the work of the Hospice and Palliative Care Association, including providing education on the benefits of opioid use in palliative care.
02:01 PM
Ms. Keller responded to questions regarding experimental treatments and recommendations for safe removal of medications. Mr. Evans responded to a question about medication take back locations.
02:08 PM
Gia Forbes, Colorado Association of Nurse Anesthetists, presented to the committee and provided a handout (Attachment K). Ms. Forbes described how she became involved in pain management, and defined addiction, physical dependence, and morphine equivalents for the committee. She explained that pain management clinics attempt to help patients reduce the amount of morphine equivalents that they take. Ms. Forbes described early intervention strategies to prevent addiction, including extended release medication, medication alternative vouchers, and access to free exercise.
17Opioid0912AttachK.pdf
02:24 PM
Ms. Forbes described the average expected reduction in pain intensity for various therapies, and noted that opioids are necessary for some patients with chronic pain. She explained procedures in pain management clinics to ensure the safety of patients. Ms. Forbes noted that it can be difficult for a pain management clinic to contract with insurers if a physician is not present in the clinic. She described problems with patients abusing Suboxone, and noted that Vivitrol may be a safer alternative treatment for opioid abuse.
02:35 PM
Ms. Forbes responded to questions regarding Vivitrol and patients' pain intensity over time.