A revamped state database launching Thursday allows Utah doctors to punch in their patients’ names to see if they are abusing opioids or at risk of becoming addicted.
A limited database has existed for several years in Utah. But the new version gives prescribers of painkillers a more immediate snapshot of whether they should prescribe, and how much.
It is part of an effort to combat an overdose epidemic in the state, officials told the Utah Legislature’s health interim committee Wednesday. Every month in Utah, an average of 24 people die from opioid overdoses, according to the Utah Department of Health, resulting in the state having among the highest rankings in the nation for drug overdose deaths.