The Opioid Crisis in America as it Effects Health Care Professionals, Patients, and the Economy

Abstract There is a growing concern in America over the increasing morbidity and mortality associated with the use and abuse of opioid pain relievers. This alarming increase has led to the term “crisis” when referring to these facts. Addressing this crisis is multi-focused. The need to prevent and treat opioid addiction is on the forefront. These needs are seen in both the prescription of opioids as well as the illicit use of non-prescription opioids. Overprescribing opioids has led to an increase of abuse and addiction to these substances. This in turn has led to a rise in street use of illicit opioids and subsequent overdoses and deaths. Pharmaceutical companies are to blame when it comes to putting out more potent opioids and thus pressuring prescribers to use these medications as a “reasonable” means to treat pain. Patient education is needed. Prescriber responsibility must increase. Alternative pain treatment must be sought and lastly treatment for those already addicted must begin. A description of the scope of the opioid crisis will be addressed. Included will be the history of the crisis, factors which have contributed to the crisis, the effects of the crisis on addiction and death tolls related to overdose, the economic result and finally, interventions needed to attempt to solve this crisis