|
|
 |
|
The
views expressed
on this page are soley those of the author and do not
necessarily
represent the views of County News Online
|
 |
State Representative Richard Adams
Combating
Opiate Addiction from the Start, the Issue of Overprescribing
Since the beginning of 2013, the Ohio General Assembly has been working
tirelessly to study the opiate addiction epidemic that plagues Ohio and
its public health. Two study committees have traveled around the state
during the summers to learn from public officials, law enforcement, and
constituents about how the epidemic has had real-life impacts on
society. The research and time put into the issue has resulted in a
package of legislation that directly addresses different aspects of the
issue.
One of the most important bills that was signed into law by Governor
Kasich is House Bill 314. It went into effect this September. House
Bill 314 changes the Ohio Revised Code to require an explicit informed
consent in order for doctors and physicians to write a prescription to
minors for any controlled substance containing opioids.
This legislation combats one of the biggest causes of the opiate
epidemic in Ohio, overprescribing. Before House Bill 314 went into
effect, minors could receive a prescription for opioids without the
consent or knowledge of a parent or guardian. The overprescribing of
controlled substances often leads to the illegal distribution of the
medication, causing widespread use and abuse.
Furthermore, the legislation also seeks to prevent those who are
underage from eventually developing an addiction to such substances.
When parents have more of a presence in their children’s lives and can
make a decision with their children and doctor, there is less of a risk
of addiction or the misuse of medication. The required consent form
would help to secure this relationship between all parties.
Protecting our youth from this pervasive epidemic is not only important
for our state’s health and future, but it also goes a long way in
preventing drug abuse and addiction from spreading further. Parents
should know if and when their children are allowed access to addictive
medications. They should feel comfortable when talking to them about
peer pressure, drugs, and alcohol, and this required consent form helps
to open that conversation.
|
|
|
|
