MACo Legislative Director Natasha Mehu testified in support of House Bill 88, “Public Health – Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) – Revisions”, with a proposed amendment that access to PDMP data be extended to county health officers and the Health Commissioner in Baltimore City.

The revisions in the bill focuses on requiring the PDMP to review data to potentially identify any misuse or abuse, violations of law, or general violations of prescribing practices. It would allow for needed oversight and ensure that critical data related to prescription drugs is not overlooked.

From MACo Testimony:

Counties believe the PDMP can be further improved by expanding PDMP access to County Health Officers and the Health Commissioner for Baltimore City. These officers play a significant role in addressing the opioid crisis in each of Maryland’s 24 jurisdictions. Access to PDMP data would enable them to share vital information and best practices with identified prescribers, and increase awareness and improve intervention efforts in cases of patients who may be doctor shopping.”

Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2018 legislative session here.