Rx Monitoring Programs

A Prescription Drug Monitoring Program or PDMP is a statewide electronic database that collects designated data on substances dispensed in the state and is housed by a specified statewide regulatory, administrative or law enforcement agency. That agency then distributes data from the database to individuals who are authorized under state law to receive the information for purposes of their profession.

Not related in any way to the Drug Enforcement Agency, PDMPs are a tool used by states to address prescription drug abuse, addiction and diversion. This type of program can do the following:

• Support access to legitimate medical use of controlled substances
• Identify and deter or prevent drug abuse and diversion
• Facilitate and encourage the identification, intervention with and treatment of persons addicted to prescription drugs
• Inform public health initiatives through outlining of use and abuse trends
• Educate individuals about PDMPs and the use, abuse and diversion of and addiction to prescription drugs

While not very well known, there are currently PDMPs in many states including Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. Seven additional states have enacted legislation to establish a PDMP, but are not fully operational.

Why PDMPs Aren’t Everywhere

If these programs are curbing prescription abuse, why aren’t they found in every state? Financial constraints are one of the most common reasons for not adopting the program. There is also some concern by individuals about privacy. The overall response for those states that have enacted the programs has been positive.

Prescription Drug Treatment

If you or someone you love is battling an prescription drug addiction, call La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.