Physicians take steps against opioid epidemic, mortality rises

| 4 Min Read

CHICAGO — A new AMA report on opioids highlights the limited effects of mandates to stem an epidemic that claims about 130 people every day—underscoring the immediate need for policymakers to focus on removing barriers to evidence-based treatment.

The 2019 Opioid Progress Report found that physicians and other health care professionals are taking significant actions in the face of the epidemic, and some reports suggest that prescription opioid-related mortality may be leveling off. Yet, death from heroin and illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fentanyl analogs are at historic levels.

This is the third annual AMA report on actions physicians have taken.

Full press release available when you sign in

Sign in to the AMA website to get the full version of this press release. 

AMA membership has its advantages

  • Be a part of the nation's largest physician organization
  • Play a role in shaping the future of health care
  • Enjoy exclusive perks and savings

Not a member? Become a member now.

 

FEATURED STORIES

Smiling woman sits on couch while typing on laptop

Medicare telehealth coverage renewed for two years

| 5 Min Read
Hand stacking blocks with health care icons

3.1% bonus revived for physicians participating in Medicare APMs

| 5 Min Read
Smiling caregiver embraces older smiling patient

Lawmakers extend CMS hospital-at-home waiver for five years

| 4 Min Read
Hand holds smartphone

AMA expert says what to do—and not do—when measuring doctor burnout

| 12 Min Read