Important Information for Prescribers and Pharmacists:
• Change in scheduling for Nucynta
• Information required on a duplicate prescription
Independent Review of the Prescription Monitoring Program Completed
The Board of the Nova Scotia Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) has reviewed and accepted an independent quality review of the program.
At the request of the Minister of Health and Wellness, the Board of the PMP commissioned an independent quality review of the program. Dr. Norman Buckley, Director of the McMaster University's Michael G DeGroote National Pain Centre and co-Chair of the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse 'First Do No Harm' strategy against prescription drug misuse led the review. Among the recommendations included in Dr. Buckley’s final report is the need for an earlier escalation of cases that require expert review in order to more quickly identify inappropriate prescribing.
“Nova Scotia is recognized for an enviable program of prescription monitoring. Recommendations made in our report are aimed at strengthening the program’s capacity to monitor and improve opioid prescribing,” said Dr. Norman Buckley.
“The PMP is considered the gold standard of prescription monitoring programs in the country and we welcome Dr. Buckley’s report,” said Dr. Gus Grant, Chair of the PMP Board.
The review of the PMP was requested following criminal charges relating to alleged opioid prescribing practices of Dr. Sarah Jones. The PMP Board will work with the Department of Health and Wellness and other program stakeholders toward further review and implementation of the report’s recommendations.
“Nova Scotians expect the PMP to take the necessary action to reduce opioid misuse and abuse in the interest of public safety. We see this review as another positive step toward further enhancements that will benefit the program and residents of Nova Scotia,” said Dr. Grant.