
Addressing the Opioid Epidemic: Recommended Solutions from Physicians
Author(s) -
Jessica Cataldo,
Sandra Collins,
Richard C. McKinnies,
Jane Nichols,
Thomas Shaw
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
qualitative research in medicine and healthcare
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2532-2044
DOI - 10.4081/qrmh.2020.8619
Subject(s) - opioid epidemic , opioid , opioid abuse , medicine , psychiatry , family medicine , receptor
The purpose of this study was to assess physicians’ accounts related to the current opioid epidemic and to identify solutions that they feel would be most successful in addressing opioid misuse and overuse. A survey was administered a group of physicians obtained from a nationwide database. Nearly all physicians surveyed believed there was a current opioid crisis in the United States and that physicians should take an active role in addressing opioid use in patients. Four key themes emerged regarding solutions to the opioid crisis: i) policy change, ii) improve treatment, iii) education, and iv) alternative treatment. The diversity of responses highlighted the need for a multifaceted approach to address opioid misuse and abuse.