EXPLORINGTHE OPIOID PRESCRIBING PRACTICES OF GENERAL PRACTITIONERS (GPS) IN WEST AND SOUTH ESSEX, UK

Introduction:The emerging evidence in recent studies shows that Opioid use and abuse have continued to grow at a significant rate, with fatal consequences. The evidence also indicates palpable apprehension and concern over the increasing opiate/ opioid prescription numbers by General Practitioners (GPs). This present study aims to explore the opioid prescribing practices of General Practitioners (GPs) in West and South Essex. The objectives are to answer the following questions: is an opiate prescription based on any available guideline? Is opioid prescribed primarily for pain management? How many times do the GPs prescribe opioids? How long are patients on pain prescription medications? Has the GPs attended training on the use of opioid for pain management? How many years has the GPs spent working as a practitioner? Finally, these researchers believe that answers to these question will add to the knowledge base towards improving the risk-benefit balance of prescribed opiates. Methods:A short self-questionnaire was sent to all GP practices in the South and West of Essex (n=25). There was a response rate of 80 per cent (20/25). Qualitative data from the questions were analysed using thematic analysis. In addition, nominal data were analysed using descriptive statistics to summarise the results. Results:The study found that most of the GPs who participated in the survey are experienced GPs, yet the majority are not complying with prescribing guidelineand thus, overprescribes opioid for pain management. Conclusion:The overprescribing practices of opioids by GPs are affected by an absence of robust guideline on managing chronic pain. Thus, we recommendcompliance with existing guideline and consultation on managing chronic pain over 16s to producea guideline on adult pain management.