What's Happening?
A recent initiative at WellBN GP Practice in Brighton, East Sussex, has significantly reduced the use of high-dose opioids among its patients. The practice, led by pharmacist Shilpa Patel and physiotherapist
Dawn Buoy, reviewed 25,000 patients and found that 35.2% were on high-dose opioids. Through a comprehensive deprescribing program, this figure was reduced to 4.7%. The program involved creating individualized treatment plans focusing on movement, pacing, and strength, alongside health coaching to help patients understand pain perception. The initiative aimed to replace medication reliance with knowledge, tools, confidence, and hope, leading to fewer emergency callouts and more meaningful patient reviews.
Why It's Important?
The initiative highlights a critical shift in addressing opioid dependence, a significant public health issue in the United States, where over 80,000 people die annually from opioid overdoses. By focusing on non-pharmacological strategies and personalized care, the program offers a model for reducing opioid dependence and improving patient outcomes. This approach could influence public health policies and healthcare practices, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of pain and empowering patients to manage their conditions without reliance on high-dose opioids.
