The Healthcare system is widely facing an issue of over-prescribing of controlled substances. Prescription drug abuse specifically opioids has majorly contributed to addressing this issue. Several states have implemented programs designed to track and monitor the prescribing practices of healthcare professionals. One such program is the Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) to prevent over-prescribing.
I-STOP monitors the prescription system to reduce the over-prescribing of controlled substances. It also prevents drug abuse. This blog will explain I-STOP, how it works, and its benefits in the healthcare sector.
What is I-STOP?
I-STOP is designed to track and monitor the prescribing of controlled substances to reduce drug abuse. It particularly controls the misuse of opioids. The healthcare professional can access real-time patient history to make an informed decision. In addition, it significantly reduces the prescription of high-risk drugs.
I-STOP was first introduced in New York in 2013 following a legislative mandate. Its successful implementation has encouraged other states to implement similar programs. This program is created to prevent the opioid epidemic. It is required to be monitored critically to track and control the prescription of addictive substances.
What Is The Purpose and Goals Of I-STOP?
The purpose and goal of I-STOP is:
- To reduce prescription drug abuse by identifying whether the doctor has over-prescribed the drug.
- To enhance patient safety, by informing all healthcare professionals about the medication patients are taking.
- To increase accountability for healthcare providers so dishonest and over-prescribing can be prevented.
How I-STOP (Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing) Works
I-STOP follows the procedure listed below:
- Data Reporting and Tracking
I-STOP, with its comprehensive tracking and monitoring feature, prevents the prescription of controlled substances. Under this reporting, all pharmacies are required to report all the prescriptions of the controlled system.
This reporting includes patient, information, prescribed medication, prescribing physicians, and pharmacy dispensing the drug. This data is continuously updated so healthcare professionals can access the latest real-time data.
So, for instance, when a doctor prescribes opioid treatment, the prescription is automatically logged into I-STOP.
The purpose of adding such details is that if the patient has been prescribed the same medication by any other doctor or the same prescription from different pharmacies, the prescribing doctor can view the previous history. It provides useful information on whether the patient is taking excessive medication quantity or doctor shopping.
- Prescription Monitoring
I-STOP is useful in providing information to healthcare providers regarding the patient’s prescription history before issuing new medication. The doctor can quickly check and identify if the patient has already taken any potentially dangerous combination or used controlled substances inappropriately.
Prescription monitoring is mandatory in preventing over-prescribing and ensures that patients do not abuse prescription drugs. Additionally, the system also identifies the healthcare providers about potentially harmful prescribing patterns. It enables to intervene before a problem could occur.
- Real-Time Access
I-STOP provides real-time access to patient’s data. Healthcare providers can access patient history from any computer or mobile device. The quick access ensures the patient receives appropriate and safe treatment. Thus, doctors can readily track from I-STOP whether any controlled substance or a similar medication is prescribed. The doctor can investigate if the opioid is already provided so they can make an informed decision about the treatment plan.
Key Features of I-STOP, Its Benefits, Challenges & Impact
Below are the key features of I-STOP that make it a widely used over-prescribing tracking system:
- Electronic Prescription Monitoring
I-STOP has replaced the paper record system. Because it was difficult to track information with a paper recording system. I-STOP, with its electronic prescription system, has made data collection and reporting easier and more accessible. It has not only simplified monitoring but also made authentic data available to healthcare providers.
- Integration with Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs)
I-STOP is operated as a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP). It is a state-run program to collect, monitor and evaluate the data. Now, many states in the U.S. have established PDMPs.
- Alerts and Flags
I-STOP has an automated alters feature to notify healthcare providers about prescriptions that could potentially be problematic. In addition, it can also detect which drugs have a high risk or reaction rate.
- Integration with Electronic Health Record (EHR) Systems
I-STOP is integrated with the Electronic Health Records (EHR) system to make the process efficient. It allows access to healthcare providers about patient’s data and history. It reduces the administrative burdens.
Benefits of I-STOP
- Prevention of Prescription Drug Abuse: Helps reduce opioid and controlled substances. It helps in preventing harmful practices such as doctor shopping and “pill mills”.
- Improved Patient Safety: Increased patient safety by providing doctors with a detailed previous history. The healthcare providers can also adjust treatment plans based on the previous history and avoid overprescribing.
- Enhanced Accountability for Healthcare Providers: I-STOP has enhanced the tracking and monitoring process of prescriptions. It ensures the prescriptions are made in compliance with medical best practices.
Challenges of I-STOP
Here are a few challenges of I-STOP that must taken into consideration:
Data Privacy and Security Concerns
I-STOP has significantly reduced prescription drug abuse. However, it has raised concerns about the privacy and security of patient’s sensitive data. Because the system contains sensitive information and can be accessed by unauthorized users, it can lead to serious consequences. The patient data and information is a critical issue thus, the I-STOP must follow the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) regulations to ensure the patient’s information is secure.
Cost and Technical Barriers
I-STOP can be costly for smaller practitioners or those working in remote areas. In addition, some healthcare provider also lacks the necessary technical skills and expertise so they are unable to implement the I-STOP system.
Compliance and Training
To effectively implement I-STOP the healthcare provider must be trained. Some providers may find it challenging because it is a time-consuming task. Additionally, it can be difficult for providers to comply with the system’s requirements. Thus, ongoing training sessions can be beneficial for successful implementation.
What is The Impact of I-STOP on Public Health?
I-STOP has significantly created an impact on public health. In addition, it particularly reduces the number of opioid-related overdoses. Studies have shown that there was a noticeable reduction in the death rate by implementing and monitoring I-STOP. It has played a crucial role in preventing over-prescribing and doctor shopping.
Better Tracking of Drug Use Trends
I-STOP has proven to track the prescription drug use trend. The data also gives insights about the regions and demographics with high risk of prescription drug abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is required to use I-STOP?
Healthcare providers are required to use I-STOP (Internet System of Tracking Over-Prescribing). While prescribing controlled substances the healthcare professional, before issuing a prescription, must check the I-STOP registry.
2. Do patients have access to their own prescription history in I-STOP?
No, the patient cannot directly access the I-STOP. However, they can request a copy of their own prescription history via a healthcare provider.
3. Is I-STOP effective in preventing drug abuse?
Yes, I-STOP has significantly reduced prescription drug abuse. It has helped by preventing over-prescribing of drugs, particularly opioids.
4. What happens if a doctor fails to use I-STOP?
If a doctor fails to use I-STOP, they may face disciplinary consequences including fines, loss of licensure, or professional sanctions.
Conclusion
To conclude, the Internet System of Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) is a helpful tool for preventing prescription drug abuse and the opioid crisis. Healthcare professionals can access the data in real-time to make a safe and informed decision regarding prescribing controlled substances.
This system has proven to significantly reduce prescription drug misuse. In addition, it has expanded and been adopted widely in the public health sector. However, I-STOP also faces some challenges such as data security and confidentiality. For that purpose, proper training is necessary so patient’s sensitive information remains safe. With the ever-evolving medical industry, I-STOP will also continue to revolutionize prescription monitoring.
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