Alternatives to PAIN Act provides seniors with affordable opioid alternatives

Posted on by Vaseline

Jim Merritt
| Indianapolis Star

play

During my three decades in the Indiana Senate, I have gained deep knowledge of the complexities surrounding opioid use disorder and addiction policy. I have learned about the devastating challenges of opioid addiction and been inspired by actions taken by colleagues, health officials, and survivors who have demonstrated our community’s resilience in the face of this public health crisis.

The most recent public data shows that nearly seven Hoosiers die every day from a drug overdose. We must act now to prevent those who have not yet succumbed to addiction from becoming addicted. That is why I strongly support Congress passing the Alternatives to Prevent Addiction in the Nation (PAIN) Act.

Seniors are at increased risk for opioid addiction after surgeries and medical treatments and could benefit from alternatives to opioids. The Alternatives to PAIN Act would ensure that non-addictive, non-opioid pain treatment options are covered by Medicare Part D.

It also ensures that the alternatives are affordable and accessible to all enrolled seniors. In particular, the Alternatives to PAIN Act includes several measures designed to improve patient care and reduce opioid dependency.

First, it limits patient cost-sharing for individuals receiving non-opioid-based pain medications through Medicare Part D plans. This provision is intended to ease the financial burden on patients seeking safer alternatives to opioids by promoting equitable access to other options.

Next, the legislation bans the use of stepped therapy and prior authorization requirements for non-opioid medications. By eliminating these bureaucratic hurdles, we can streamline access and ensure that patients receive timely care without unnecessary delays or being prescribed opioids first before alternative options are given.

Nationally, more than 9% of patients progress to long-term opioid use, even after low-risk surgery, such as a hernia repair or knee arthroscopy. We can prevent that situation.

While the Alternatives to PAIN Act is an important first step in ensuring access and affordability for non-addictive, non-opioid pain management options, widespread support and use of alternatives will not occur until insurers and pharmacy benefit managers support these options as well. Their cooperation is critical for all in need of safer pain management treatments.

The Alternatives to PAIN Act represents a critical opportunity to combat the opioid crisis and cultivate a healthier future for our country. I commend Rep. Larry Bucshon for co-sponsoring this legislation and call on Senators Mike Braun and Todd Young and our entire Indiana congressional delegation to support it as well.

Together we can build a robust healthcare system that puts the patient first and minimizes the risk of opioid addiction in the elderly.

Jim Merritt is a former Republican senator from Indianapolis.

Avatar for Vaseline
Vaseline https://newspowergreen.biz.id

You May Also Like

More From Author