Improving the MA PMP through Technology-Based Enhancements

The Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) enhances the capacity of regulatory and law enforcement agencies and public health officials to collect and analyze controlled substance prescription data and other scheduled chemical products through a centralized database administered by an authorized agency.

PDMPs help state and local governments to detect and prevent the diversion and abuse of pharmaceutically controlled substances such as opioids and other prescription drugs. The Harold Rogers PDMP strengthens states’ and territories’ ability to plan, implement, or enhance PDMPs by accommodating local decision-making based on state laws and preferences, while encouraging the replication of promising practices. In addition to supporting the implementation and enhancement of PDMPs, the program can support the Administration’s priority of tracking prescribing across providers and states through the integration of PDMPs and Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) which are essential to promoting safe and responsible prescribing, while also assuring appropriate pain care.

The applicant will continue the use of an advanced patient support tool that includes risk alert features as well as interactive prescription data graphically displayed in a single, customizable, and easy-to use interface. This enhanced tool allows prescribers to make more informed clinical decisions. In addition, the applicant will continue to support a web-based case management system designed to improve the communication process and online capabilities between the Massachusetts PMP and the drug diversion investigative unit.

CA/NCF