Source: EHR Intelligence
ONC is working to address the opioid epidemic through its support for nationwide health information exchange (HIE), including prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs), according to a HealthITBuzz blog post. PDMPs are state-run electronic databases that assemble pharmacy and patient data from Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) controlled substances and prescription drugs. PDMPs help prescribers keep track of patients at high risk of becoming opioid-dependent. Some states and territories have leveraged PDMPs to help address challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic by expanding system capabilities.