Understanding the OARRS CE Program

Understanding the OARRS CE Program

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System (ORS)
   1. Background
   2. Purpose of ORS
3. The Prescription Drug Crisis in Ohio
4. How ORS Works
   1. Data Collection
   2. Who Can Access ORS Reports
   3. Limitations and Prohibited Uses
5. Requirements for Prescribers
   1. Initial Prescription and Ongoing Treatment
   2. Exemptions to Requesting an ORS Report
6. Requirements for Pharmacists
   1. Drug Utilization Review
   2. When to Run an ORS Report
   3. Considerations when Reviewing an ORS Report
7. Contents of an ORS Report
   1. Listed Prescriptions
   2. Morphine Equivalent Dose (MEED)
   3. Validity of Prescriptions
8. Guidelines for Health Care Professionals
   1. Opioid Prescribing Guidelines
   2. Identifying Risks and Signs of Abuse in Adolescents
9. Conclusion
10. Accessing the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System

The Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System: Improving Patient Care, Reducing Prescription Abuse

In today's society, prescription drug abuse has become a major public health crisis, not only in Ohio but across the nation. The misuse and abuse of prescription medications, particularly opioid pain relievers and benzodiazepines, have resulted in thousands of deaths each year. To address this growing problem, the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy implemented the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System (ORS), a prescription monitoring program designed to improve patient care and reduce prescription drug abuse.

The Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System, also known as ORS, is a secure web-Based tool that aids healthcare professionals in providing better quality care while quickly identifying potential drug-seeking behaviors. By collecting prescription data on a daily basis from licensed pharmacies and prescribers, ORS ensures that healthcare professionals have access to accurate and up-to-date information about a patient's prescription history.

Prescribers, pharmacists, and their authorized delegates can request an ORS report on a Current or prospective patient. This includes patients with appointments, referrals, or prescriptions presented to the pharmacist. Prescribers are also allowed to review an ORS report of a patient's mother if providing medical treatment to a newborn or infant patient diagnosed as opioid dependent.

However, it's essential to understand that certain limitations and prohibited uses Apply to accessing and using ORS reports. Prescribers and pharmacists are not permitted to request an ORS report as a pre-employment screening tool, to search for forged prescriptions, or to update Chart records. Additionally, requesting an ORS report of a deceased person is prohibited unless the prescriber is also the coroner.

To comply with Ohio law and Pharmacy Board rules, prescribers must request patient information from ORS covering at least the previous 12 months before initially prescribing or personally furnishing an opioid analgesic or a benzodiazepine. Periodic requests for patient information from ORS also need to be made at intervals not exceeding 90 days if the course of treatment continues for more than 90 days.

Pharmacists, on the other HAND, have their own set of requirements when it comes to running an ORS report. Before dispensing an outpatient prescription for a reported drug, pharmacists must request and review an ORS report covering at least a one-year time period. Pharmacists should pay Attention to specific situations such as when a patient adds a different or new reported drug to their therapy, when multiple prescribers or pharmacies are involved, or when a patient exhibits signs of potential abuse or diversion.

The information contained in an ORS report provides a comprehensive overview of a patient's prescription history, including reportable drugs, quantities, days' supply, prescribers, and pharmacies involved. The report also includes the Morphine Equivalent Dose (MEED) for all active opioid prescriptions, which helps healthcare professionals assess the patient's cumulative opioid dosage and make informed decisions regarding treatment.

To support health care professionals in making safe choices for their patients, the State of Ohio has developed prescribing guidelines in collaboration with the Governor's Cabinet Opiate Action Team. These guidelines aim to prevent overprescribing and ensure appropriate pain management. Additionally, medical providers are encouraged to provide substance use screening and counseling to adolescents, as early identification of risks and substance use is crucial in preventing potential addiction.

In conclusion, the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System (ORS) plays a vital role in improving patient care and reducing prescription drug abuse in Ohio. By providing healthcare professionals with access to accurate prescription data, ORS helps ensure that patients receive appropriate drug therapy while mitigating the risks associated with prescription drug misuse and abuse. Accessing ORS is an essential step for healthcare professionals in their commitment to providing high-quality care and addressing the prescription drug crisis.

To access the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System, visit the official Website at WWF pharmacy Ohio gov and get started today. Remember, with ORS, You have the power to make a difference and save lives.