Idaho Gov. Little signs executive order to combat opioid and substance misuse

opioid-crisis

Idaho Governor Brad Little Thursday signed an executive order aimed at combating opioid and substance misuse in the Gem State.

Opioids, including prescription pain relievers and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and heroin, lead drug-induced deaths in Idaho. Opioid prescriptions are dispensed in Idaho at a higher rate than 34 other states, and Idaho ranks 25th in the country for prescription pain reliever misuse.

Little’s executive order establishes an advisory group, chaired by Melinda Smyser, administrator of the Governor’s Office of Drug Policy, that will research, evaluate, and provide the Governor recommendations on – among other things – policies directing law enforcement and prosecutors to refer first-time, non-violent drug offenders to local crisis centers rather than arrest and indictment; prescription limitations and practices including use of the prescription monitoring program; educating the medical community about opioid regimens, risks, and alternatives; and treatment options for opioid and substance misuse.

In addition, Little will direct agencies within his administration to do more to fight opioid and substance misuse, including researching and deploying funding mechanisms to integrate prescription drug monitoring program data with electronic medical records and pharmacy dispensing systems.

Meanwhile, the Governor’s Office of Drug Policy will continue efforts to promote and broaden drug disposal programs; evaluate and pursue further opioid education, prevention measures, and resiliency training; and encourage and partner with county and local law enforcement, paramedics, and correctional officials to supply naloxone and apply for grant funding for naloxone distribution. (Idaho Gov. Brad Little’s Office)

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