MN #opioid Work Group created Taper Guidance. It will be out 4 public comment soon. Some areas extremely problematic. Although it states NOT 2 taper solely 2 meet system or state policy; MN Quality Improvement requires Drs 2 meet MME thresholds = TAPER TO MEET STATE POLICY. 🤔
If #ChronicPain pt wants 2 try 2 taper from #opioid analgesics 4 any reason & CONSENTS, there needs 2 be safe way 2 do it. Problem throughout U.S, incl #Minnesota; is non-consensual tapering. Many experts, incl #addiction specialists, stress dangers & even state it's UNETHICAL.
All PBMs do something of this nature & plans vary. They should look for & prevent abuse & fraud, but as outlined in their own literature on policy, Benecard is absolutely interfering btw Drs & patients by using CDC GLs & unilateral decisions on what is appropriate for a patient.
Per CDC, based on their clarification of intent of #opioid guidelines; these policies meet definition of misapplication & misinterpretation. Being as @CDCgov@CDCInjury neglects to intervene in official capacity; PBMs, #healthcare insurance companies will continue this practice.