A new law in Illinois requires all providers with a controlled substance license to enroll in the prescription monitoring program by January 1, 2018. You can read a summary of the law here.
Let’s talk a little bit about the Illinois Prescription Monitoring Program. It’s an electric tool that collects information on controlled substance prescriptions. Information on this site is updated on a daily basis by retail pharmacies dispensing in Illinois. This program allows providers to log onto the website and learn about each patient’s prescription history in order to fight substance abuse. There is a great webinar available here.
Important Highlights:
- There is no cost to enroll.
- Law applies to physicians, physician assistants, nurses, dentists and a few others that carry a controlled substance license in the state of IL.
- Prescribers must attempt to check the PMP before writing an intial prescription for a schedule II opioid.
- The PMP check must be documented in the medical record.
- The law has laid out exceptions for oncology treatment, palliative care and acute traumatic medication conditions if it is less than a 7 day supply prescribed in the ER.
Providers can enroll in this program here. After enrollment, providers will receive an email with further instructions. PMP has set up some great resources for providers on their website at www.ilpmp.org. They can also be reached directly at 217-524-1311, by email to dhs.pmp@illinois.gov, or use the PMP’s online question form.
