A PDMP is an electronic database which collects designated data on substances dispensed. The PDMP is housed by a specified regulatory, administrative or law enforcement agency. The housing agency distributes data from the database to individuals who are authorized under law to receive the information for purposes of their profession.
A Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) monitors the prescribing and dispensing of schedule II-IV controlled substances to assist in the identification and prevention of prescription drug misuse and abuse.
The system potentially being established by the State of Missouri has a very different focus, target audience, and process, and it is currently unknown what the impact might be on opiate addiction across the state. Data consistently shows that the overwhelming majority of prescribers are not in violation of the law in their prescribing, and enforcement efforts will have a limited impact. Some statewide programs in the 1990’s attempted to focus on providers as the source of opiate addiction and all have failed to produce reductions in the opioid crisis. These systems were replaced with PDMPs that provide information at the point of care. The focus on a few providers that may be engaged in illegal activities does not address the needs of the majority of providers intent on quality patient care who need information and resources.
For more information, contact your local county or city health department to determine if a local PDMP is being considered. You may also contact the DPH PDMP Coordinator at PDMP.DPH@stlouisco.com or visit www.stlouisco.com/HealthandWellness/PDMPwww.stlouisco.com/HealthandWellness/PDMP.