3 6 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0
The Michigan Opioid
Prescribing Engage-ment
Network (OPEN) has part-
nered with institutions and
physicians throughout the
state to identify and dis-
seminate best practices in
acute care opioid prescrib-
ing. They tracked statewide prescribing rates, new persistent
use, refills, consumption, spending and patient utilization, and
used the data to create prescribing recommendations for specific
surgical procedures, as well as inform policy and develop educa-
tional materials for patients and providers. A sample of the pro-
gram's 25 prescribing recommendations shown here are the
result of Michigan OPEN's extensive research and evidence-
based data. Michigan OPEN says it will revise the recommenda-
tions if needed as new data emerges and is in the process of
adding more. — Joe Paone
Procedure No. of Oxycodone
5 mg tablets
• thyroidectomy 0-5
• breast biopsy/lumpectomy 0-5
• laparoscopic anti-reflux (Nissen) 0-10
• appendectomy (lap or open) 0-10
EXACT COUNT
Proven Prescribing
Recommendations
• SAFE SUGGESTION Hip replacement patients should
receive up to 30 opioid pills to manage post-op pain,
according to Michigan OPEN's evidence-based research.
