AHA, CDC Issue New Patient Resource On Prescription Opioids

Will help patients and care providers discuss risks and benefits, as well as alternative pain management

WASHINGTON (June 7, 2016) – The American Hospital Association (AHA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today issued a new resource on prescription opioids to help increase communication between health care providers and patients about the risks and benefits associated with these medications.

This one-pager, “Prescription Opioids: What You Need to Know,” is intended for both prescribers and for patients experiencing pain and who may potentially be prescribed opioids before being discharged from the hospital. The co-branded product takes an approach that urges both audiences to discuss the risks and benefits of prescription opioids, how to use these medications as safely and effectively as possible, and ways to manage pain that do not involve prescription opioids.

“Every day, hospitals see how misuse of and overdose from prescription opioids affects patients’ families, loved ones and communities,” said AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack. “We want patients to have open, honest conversations with their care providers about the best way to manage pain. The goal is to help patients manage their pain and continue to lead healthy, productive lives. We are pleased to work with the CDC to develop and share this new resource with hospitals and care providers across the country.”

About the AHA

The AHA is a not-for-profit association of health care provider organizations and individuals that are committed to the health improvement of their communities. The AHA is the national advocate for its members, which include nearly 5,000 hospitals, health care systems, networks, other providers of care and 43,000 individual members. Founded in 1898, the AHA provides education for health care leaders and is a source of information on health care issues and trends. For more information, visit the AHA website at www.aha.org.