Opioid Use and Misuse in the Medicare System

The Medicare program serves as the healthcare coverage provider to over 58 million beneficiaries. In serving the over age 65 population, Medicare accounts for a large share of total opioid prescriptions. In 2016, one out of every three beneficiaries was prescribed an opioid through Medicare Part D. While many Medicare beneficiaries with serious pain-related conditions are being properly prescribed opioids, there is mounting evidence of opioid misuse in the Medicare system. This book looks at a proposed programs which seek to increase screening and thus, early detection of potential opioid use disorder upon entry into the Medicare program.