[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 68 (Thursday, April 26, 2018)]
[House]
[Pages H3589-H3590]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
ADAPT ACT
(Mr. SCHNEIDER asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, in 2016, more than 63,000 people died
from drug overdose, more than 30,000 of these from opioids. We also
know that 80 percent of heroin users started with prescription opioids.
Reducing opioid-related deaths will take a broad, multifaceted effort,
and everyone has a role to play, including physicians.
In congressional hearings and community conversations, I constantly
hear that enhancing continuing education for prescribers on the risks
associated with opioid medication and indications and treatment of
addictive behaviors can help reduce dependence and abuse of these
drugs.
This week, I was proud to partner with Congresswoman Susan Brooks of
Indiana to introduce the bipartisan ADAPT Act. Our bill would help
ensure prescribers have continuing medical education on safe
prescribing, opioid risks, pain management alternatives, early
detection of drug abuse, and treatment options for patients suffering
from addiction.
We know more about opioid addiction today than we did 20 years ago.
With ongoing research, we will continue to gain new insights and
understanding. We need our doctors to be equipped with the latest tools
and best practices when treating patients.
I urge my colleagues to join us in support of this effort to equip
those on the front lines of the opioid crisis with the latest and best
training to help our communities.
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