LWV/ABC
Drug Policy Committee

(updated 3/27/2008)

 

Chair: Delores Watkins - 823-2308

This group deals with all aspects of drug policy, but recently, has focused on the availability of prescription drugs to those who need them, and adequacy of pain control medication. The Drug Policy Study Committee meets the fourth Thursday every month, continuing throughout the summer.

All League members are welcome to attend any committee meeting, unit meeting, or board meeting.

Next Meeting: February 28, Thursday

1-3pm
Manzano del Sol, 6th Floor Lounge
5201 Roma Ave NE

On the agenda will be review of the February Unit discussion, next steps in the study and an update on legislative action.

Background Information for February 2008 Consensus on Pain Management

Bring this information with you when you come to the unit meetings!

Many pain management policy issues relate to four types of barriers. Here are some examples:

  1. Communication barriers...
    1. Consumers do not know how to talk with their providers about their pain; providers do not know how to listen and discuss pain with their patients.
    2. Providers do not have the time to listen to patients.
  2. Cultural barriers...
    1. Pain needs to be endured.
    2. I don't want people to know I am using controlled substances.
    3. Fear of pain medications causing addiction or dependence.
  3. Educational barriers...
    1. Few medical schools provide specialized training in pain management.
    2. Misconceptions of such terms as addiction, physical dependence and tolerance.
    3. Lack of current information on pain and its treatment.
    4. Lack of current information about laws, regulations and protections related to pain.
  4. Drug Policy barriers...
    1. New Mexico law regulates the use of controlled substances as does the federal Controlled Substances Act. State law can be more restrictive. Some states have also legislated less restriction to challenge this federal Act.
    2. Drug Enforcement Agency interpretations can restrict patient access to pain medications.
    3. DEA and State agencies can create an atmosphere of fear for patients and healthcare professionals.

Dee Watkins Drug Policy Study Committee, Chair

www.lwvabc.org

League of Women Voters, Albuquerque-Bernalillo County
2403 San Mateo NE, W-16C       Albuquerque, NM 87110       Phone: 505.884.8441       Fax: 505.884.8488
Email LWV/ABC with any questions, comments, or concerns