Though it took years to be implemented, Florida’s prescription drug monitoring database seems to be a success, so far.
Recent figures released by the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Foundations show that more than 16.8 million dispensing records have been uploaded to the system since Sept. 1.
Other stats:
- More than 3,700 prescribers and dispensers have requested access to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
- More than 2,200 prescribers and dispensers have been granted access.
- More than 270 prescribers and dispensers have been denied access because the information provided in their registration request did not match their licensure data.
- More than 1,220 prescriber and dispenser access requests are pending approval.
- More than 10,850 Patient Advisory Reports have been requested by prescribers and dispensers.
Supporters of the database, such as state Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, are happy with the current numbers. “Sen. Fasano is pleased that within such a short period of time so many practitioners have not only requested access to the database but have also utilized the database,” says Greg Giordano, Fasano’s chief legislative aide.
“The number of people denied access to the database represents over 10 percent of those who have applied,” says Giordano. “That is a significant number of people who will not be able to view important and private health records because they are not properly licensed to do so.”
Fasano, a vocal advocate for the database, has expressed concerns that the success of the database would mean more citizens seeking drug treatment options. As chairman of the Senate Criminal & Civil Justice Appropriations Committee, Fasano has expressed plans to work through the budget process in order to appropriate more money for drug treatment programs.
