NCJ Number
232644
Journal
Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 40 Issue: 3 Dated: Spring 2010 Pages: 681-702
Date Published
2010
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This study examined the role of pain clinics in the abuse and diversion of prescription opioids.
Abstract
The goal of this research is to better understand the role that South Florida pain management clinics may be playing in the abuse and diversion of prescription drugs. This study explores 1) the characteristics and practices of pain clinics that may be facilitating the drug-seeking endeavors of prescription drug abusers and 2) the drug-seeking behaviors of prescription drug abusers who use pain clinics as a primary source for drugs. Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted with prescription drug abusers in South Florida. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and codes were generated based on thematic analyses of the data. Using grounded theory strategies, the analyses revealed six main themes: "pill mills," on-site pharmacies, liberal prescribing habits, "sponsoring" drug diversion, pain doctor/pharmacy shopping, and falsifying symptoms/documentation. These findings should provide insights for law enforcement, regulatory agencies, and industry as they attempt to develop appropriate policy initiatives and recommendations for best practices. References (Published Abstract)