SAMHSA-funded project to develop a Prescriber's Clinical Support System

Medical professionals will gain access to free clinical support in the use of opioid medications through a new grant announced by SAMHSA today. SAMHSA awarded $1.5 million to the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry to develop a Prescriber's Clinical Support System.

The Clinical Support System has two main goals. The first goal is to promote the appropriate use of opioid therapies by medical professionals for treating opioid-related addiction. The second goal is advancing the safe use by medical professionals of opioid medications in treatment of chronic pain -- including training on how to recognize signs of misuse, abuse, and addiction among patients.

This project includes a large number of partners who will contribute to the development of educational materials including webinars, training at national meetings, and clinical tools to assist practicing clinicians including physicians, dentists, and nurse practitioners.

"Opioids, used appropriately, can provide people in need a path to recovery," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "At the same time these powerful drugs, especially prescription pain relievers can be misused. This new clinical support system will provide clinicians with vital insight on the safe and effective use of opioid medication for their patients and how to address the problem of misuse."

The grant will be awarded in annual amounts of $500,000 over the next three years. The actual award amount may vary, depending on the availability of funds and the performance of the grantee.