The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report Monday that found better communications with pharmacies and other stakeholders can help control prescription drug abuse while guaranteeing that patient access to medications is not compromised.
The report studied the interaction between the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and government and industry stakeholders in curbing prescription drug abuse and preserving patient access to medications.
The GAO found that improved communication and guidance for pharmacies could provide a better understanding of the roles to help prevent misuse under the Controlled Substances Act.
“More DEA communication with registrants could help improve their awareness of various DEA resources, as well as help DEA better understand registrants’ information needs, such as their need for improved guidance,” the GAO report said.
Last April, the House of Representatives passed the Ensuring Patient Access and Effective Drug Enforcement Act of 2015 (HR 471). The bill would direct the Department of Health and Human Services to work with the DEA and the Office of National Drug Control Policy to evaluate obstacles to legitimate patient access to controlled substances.
A similar bipartisan bill is under consideration in the U.S. Senate. Both bills are endorsed by National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS).
“Pharmacies play an important role in efforts to prevent prescription drug diversion and abuse, and helping to ensure that patients with legitimate medical needs have the medications they need,” NACDS President and CEO Steven Anderson said.
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