AHA toolkit offers guidance to help hospitals address opioid epidemic

A new AHA toolkit offers guidance and case examples to help hospitals and health systems work with their patients, clinicians and communities to tackle the opioid epidemic. Developed with input from a multidisciplinary team and vetted with subject matter experts, the resource includes tools and information to promote appropriate prescribing practices; identify non-opioid treatment options; treat opioid use disorders and address stigma; educate patients, families and caregivers; ensure safe and effective care transitions; safeguard prescription opioids against diversion; and collaborate with communities. In an AHA Stat blog post, AHA Chief Medical Officer Jay Bhatt, D.O., encouraged the field to share feedback on the toolkit and other successful approaches for future updates. For more on the opioid crisis and additional resources for hospitals and health systems, visit www.aha.org/opioid.