09/28/2020

Take the ‘Safe Opioid Use’ pledge by Oct. 30!

Take the ‘Safe Opioid Use’ pledge by Oct. 30!

Participating ASCs will receive a series of benefits for adopting the program.

Earlier this year, we partnered with the California Society of Anesthesiologists to release an opioid toolkit resource to help healthcare providers, in ambulatory surgery centers throughout California, combat opioid misuse and dependence in post-surgical patients. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the ASC industry had to quickly shift its focus to navigate these unprecedented times. 

As we operate in this new environment, we hope to continue our efforts to provide ASCs with the necessary resources and information to deliver high quality, specialized patient care. With the increase in telehealth and September Pain Awareness Month, it is critical that ASCs communicate with patients clearly and consistently to educate them on the safe opioid use and pain management. The ‘Safe Opioid Use’ toolkit includes an office poster that details a five-pronged approach to post-procedure opioid prescribing; a brochure to provide to patients and caregivers on safe opioid use; and a short video on opioid education and pain management for patient viewing before procedures.

To encourage adoption of the opioid toolkit resources from ASCs, we will be extending a series of benefits to ASCs in California that have signed the pledge and implemented the toolkit by October 30.

Be a part of this movement. Join the inaugural group of California ASCs leading an initiative to curb the opioid epidemic.

 What do these benefits include?

• Your ASC will receive recognition on CASA’s website, social media platforms, and in the CASA e-newsletter.
• CASA will pitch the local media outlets that serve the ASC’s region, promoting your ASC’s participation in the program and encouraging localized media coverage.
• CASA will send a letter to the elected officials representing the participating ASCs’ regions – describing the importance of safe opioid use and recognizing your ASC for participation in the program.
• Your ASC will be included in a new fact sheet that showcases participating ASCs – this handout will be distributed at future lobby day visits.

How do I implement the toolkit at my ASC?

Here are 8 steps for implementation.

1. Commit to the goal.
2. Hold briefings(s) with ASC team members.
3. Secure signatures on the pledge.
4. Employ best practices for safe opioid prescribing.
5. Prioritize discussions with patients and caregivers.
6. Provide toolkit brochure and show video to patients/caregivers.
7. Conduct quarterly team assessments to ensure ongoing commitment and follow through.
8. Showcase your ASC’s pledge and certificate of recognition to let patients know you are following best practices for safe opioid prescribing!

Please feel free to reach out to CASA Executive Director, Beth LaBouyer, at blabouyer@casurgery.org for more information.