The number of opioid-related overdose deaths has been sharply rising over the last few years in Pennsylvania.
The state’s top doctor is now encouraging a new way of thinking about the drugs as officials try to curb the overdose crisis.
PA’s Physician General Dr. Rachel Levine uses the term “opioid stewardship” to refer to the measures implemented by the legislature and professional societies to try and head off addiction and reduce overdose deaths. Dr. Levine says opioids are essential medicine in some cases, but they need to be used carefully.
A state task force has released safe prescribing guidelines for opioids and other high risk drugs. Dr. Levine says they will continue to examine best practices in the coming year.
