The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) has developed this resource center to provide professionals in the musculoskeletal community with information on the new, one-time training requirement for Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-registered practitioners.
On December 29, 2022, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 enacted a new, one-time requirement for all DEA-registered practitioners (except veterinarians) to complete 8 hours of training “on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders.” This requirement goes into effect on June 27, 2023. The DEA-issued training letter can be accessed on the Department of Justice website.
AAOS Information Statement on the Safe and Effective Alleviation of Pain and Optimal Opioid Stewardship
Orthopaedic surgeons have a responsibility to be better stewards of these medications and to adopt a harm-reduction approach in working with orthopaedic patients who are being treated with opioids. Harm-reduction strategies support the patient and include education and prevention, the adoption of evidence-based treatment and communication strategies, and the use of naloxone to prevent opioid overdose.
Orthopaedic surgeons also can use alternative pain management strategies and a multimodal approach that involves perioperative interventions, such as wound injections and peripheral nerve blocks, which can reduce postoperative opioid consumption and facilitate rapid discharge home without readmission for pain-related symptoms.
Read the full statement for additional guidance.
Where Can I Find Training to Satisfy the DEA Requirement?
Click the links below to view courses and resources to satisfy the training requirements.
Additional Resources on Opioids and Substance Abuse
The following resources do not satisfy the required 8 hours of training but may aid in the safe and effective treatment of patients.
This resource page provides a wealth of resources and information related to the opioid epidemic in the United States. The website includes information for patients, healthcare providers, and communities about the risks associated with opioids, how to prevent opioid misuse and abuse, and how to get help for opioid addiction.
The website features sections on opioids and chronic pain, opioid prescribing guidelines, opioid overdose prevention, and treatment options for opioid addiction. Resources for pharmacists, public health professionals, and first responders on how to respond to the opioid crisis also are available.
The website provides data and statistics on opioid-related deaths and overdoses and information on current research and initiatives to address the opioid epidemic. In addition, resources are available for individuals seeking assistance, including a treatment locator tool and a helpline for those struggling with addiction.
CDC Drug Overdose Resource Page
This resource page provides information on the growing problem of drug overdose in the United States. The website includes resources for individuals, healthcare providers, and public health professionals on the risks associated with drug use and overdose and strategies for prevention and treatment.
The website includes sections on prescription drug overdose, heroin overdose, synthetic opioid overdose, and overdose deaths involving multiple drugs. It also provides information on risk factors for overdose, how to recognize the signs of an overdose, and how to respond in an emergency.
In addition, the website provides data and statistics on drug overdose deaths and information on current research and initiatives to address the issue. Resources are available for individuals seeking assistance, including a treatment locator tool and a helpline for those struggling with addiction.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Website
The SAMHSA is a federal agency that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. They provide information, resources, grants, programs, and services on substance abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery. They also offer a national helpline that connects callers with local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
National Safety Council (NSC) Prescription Drug Misuse Resource Center
The NSC Prescription Drug Misuse Resource Center hosts detailed information on the risks and consequences of prescription drug misuse, guidelines for proper prescribing practices, and strategies for identifying and treating patients at risk. It also provides access to relevant research studies, educational materials, and tools for promoting safe opioid prescription and addiction prevention. This content helps healthcare providers make informed decisions, improve patient safety, and address the opioid crisis effectively.
Information For Patients/Patient Education
Helpful Materials for Patients
The CDC has a website that provides patients with information and materials on opioids, such as fact sheets, treatment and recovery options, and prevention tips.
Drug Addiction (Substance Use Disorder)
The Mayo Clinic has a website that explains opioid use disorders. The website includes the causes, symptoms, and complications of opioid use disorders; how opioid use disorders are diagnosed and managed; and how to cope and support individuals with an opioid use disorder.
The American Psychiatric Association has a website that provides an overview of opioid use disorders. The website includes the signs and symptoms of opioid use disorders, as well as risk factors, treatment options, and how to find help.
The UpToDate website has a topic that covers the epidemiology, pharmacology, clinical manifestations, course, screening, assessment, and diagnosis of opioid use disorders. It also provides links to related topics on treatment and prevention.