Tag: Healthcare policy

As of mid-2025, the U.S. is grappling with over 250 active drug shortages, a crisis impacting hundreds of thousands of patients [1.6.1, 1.6.3]. This raises a critical question for patients nationwide: why are pharmacies struggling to get medication?

In the United States, an estimated 50% of people with chronic illnesses do not take their medication as prescribed. This highlights a critical question many patients have: Why do I need to see my doctor every three months for refills? The answer involves a combination of medical best practices, legal requirements, and patient safety protocols.

The CDC's 2022 Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids replaced the more rigid 2016 version, focusing on flexible, patient-centered care. Understanding **what are the new guidelines for prescribing opioids?** is crucial for clinicians aiming to balance effective pain management with the ongoing need to mitigate overdose risk, expanding the scope to include care for acute, subacute, and chronic pain.

Prescribing guidelines are a cornerstone of modern healthcare, helping to ensure medications are used appropriately and safely. Within these frameworks, a grey list identifies medications that are not typically recommended for standard use. Understanding **what are the GREY list drugs?** is crucial for both prescribers and patients to navigate treatment options effectively.

Originating from the Durham-Humphrey Amendment of 1951, **what is a legend drug** became a crucial distinction in U.S. pharmaceutical law, mandating a prescription for specific medications. This legislative act was designed to ensure patient safety by restricting access to drugs with potential for harm, addiction, or misuse, distinguishing them from freely available over-the-counter options.