NJ SR32

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, and other professionals who prescribe opioids or frequently interact with patients prescribed opioids

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

Notes that in 2012, healthcare providers wrote 259 million opioid prescriptions nationally, and an estimated 9-11 million adults receive long-term opioid therapy despite limited research on long-term benefits