Over recent years, the Military Health System has observed a significant pattern in opioid prescribing, primarily linked to dental care. With comprehensive dental coverage, a substantial number of service members receive their first opioid prescriptions through dental encounters, highlighting a critical area for intervention to curb long-term use.
Understanding Prescribing Patterns
Analyzing data from October 2015 to September 2021, researchers examined opioid prescription trends among 1.66 million US service members. Out of this population, approximately 373,000 individuals filled their initial opioid prescription between 7 to 24 months after enrolling in the study. The demographic breakdown revealed that 83% were male, with a majority being white non-Hispanic, followed by black non-Hispanic and Hispanic service members. The average age stood at 27 years.
Role of Dental Providers
The study found that dental visits accounted for 38% of initial opioid prescriptions, with dentists responsible for 32% of these fills and 25% of the total opioid dosage prescribed. Additionally, a small group of prescribers (10%) generated the majority of opioid prescriptions (64%) and contributed to 67% of the total opioid milligram morphine equivalents (MME). Musculoskeletal conditions were the second most common reason for initial opioid prescriptions, representing 19% of the fills.
- Dental encounters are the leading source of initial opioid prescriptions in the military.
- A small percentage of prescribers are responsible for the majority of opioid prescriptions.
- Musculoskeletal issues also contribute significantly to initial opioid use.
Effective strategies targeting dental prescribers could significantly reduce the initiation of opioid use among military personnel. Implementing guideline-driven prescribing practices and enhancing provider education are crucial steps. Additionally, monitoring and regulating the prescribing behaviors of high-volume prescribers can further mitigate the risk of long-term opioid dependency.
Focusing on dental providers presents a unique opportunity to influence opioid prescribing trends positively. By ensuring that dentists adhere to best practices and alternative pain management strategies, the Military Health System can better safeguard its service members against the risks associated with opioid misuse. This targeted approach not only addresses the immediate concerns of opioid initiation but also supports the overall health and readiness of the military workforce.
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