Understanding Opioid Addiction Challenges
Health Policy; Opioids Health Policy Paper Forward the topic of the health policy paper to faculty at the end of Week One Drug abuse on opioids, Health policy unfolds daily and drives clinical practice in the US. The student will investigate current policies or legislation underway for a specific health-related issue. The Student will develop a scholarly APA formatted paper supported by evidence. The policy paper rubric: Introduction to population or problem (incidence, prevalence, epidemiology, cost burden etc) Description of how the policy is intended for a specific population, program or organization Specific legislators involved in the policy development and dissemination Identify the role of the APRN in assisting with the policy or refuting the policy – this requires the evidence to support opinion, ideas and/or concepts. Discuss how the policy influences clinical practice and is used to promote best outcomes Examine how the policy can be used by the inteprofessional team to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care for the specific population. Health Policy; Opioids
Understanding Opioid Addiction Challenges
Opioids include drugs like heroin, fentanyl, morphine, codeine, and oxycodone. These substances contain chemicals that act on the nervous system. They relieve pain and produce feelings of pleasure. Unfortunately, individuals with opioid addiction report a strong urge to use these drugs, even when they no longer need them.
According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, about 2 million people in the U.S. abuse opioids (NIDA, 2020). Tragically, in 2016, approximately 42,000 individuals died from opioid-related complications (Lyden & Binswanger, 2019). Moreover, between 21 and 29 percent of people with opioid prescriptions overdose. Additionally, 8 to 12 percent develop opioid use disorder (Lyden & Binswanger, 2019).
In 2018, the opioid prescribing rate in the U.S. reached 51.4 prescriptions for every 100 people (Lyden & Binswanger, 2019). Furthermore, about 3.6 percent of youths aged 12 to 17 misused opioids in the previous year (Lyden & Binswanger, 2019). The Centers for Disease Control estimates the annual cost burden of opioid misuse in the U.S. at around $78.5 billion (Lyden & Binswanger, 2019).
In conclusion, opioid misuse poses a significant public health challenge. The statistics reveal a stark reality. Many individuals suffer from addiction and its consequences. Addressing this issue requires urgent attention and effective strategies. APA