NJ AR42

Urges the State Boards of Medical Examiners, Dentistry, Nursing, and Pharmacy to implement continuing education requirements for healthcare professionals on opioid pain medication topics

Continuing education would cover responsible prescribing practices, alternatives to opioids for pain management, and recognizing signs of opioid misuse, abuse, and addiction

Requirements would apply to physicians, physician assistants, advance practice nurses, dentists, pharmacists, professional nurses, practical nurses, and other prescribing and non-prescribing healthcare professionals who interact with opioid patients

Education requirements would remain in effect for two biennial license renewal periods unless extended by the boards

Notes that in 2012, healthcare providers wrote 259 million opioid prescriptions nationally, and New Jersey ranks 11th lowest in drug overdose death rates