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(Washington, D.C.) – Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after President Trump signed into law SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6) which included his legislation, Opioid Screening and Chronic Pain Management Alternatives for Seniors Act (Section 2002)

“The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act will help our struggling communities to combat the opioid crisis by focusing on improving care for those who have opioid use disorder, and preventing opioid misuse and addiction. This comprehensive legislation, negotiated and agreed upon by both chambers in a bipartisan manner, will help states like Indiana combat the growing opioid epidemic. It will give hope to families and it will save lives.

 “As a physician, I believe it is vital to support initiatives that will help to prevent seniors from misusing or becoming addicted to opioids while managing their chronic pain. One of the ways to address the opioid crisis is to prevent Americans from becoming addicted in the first place. By screening seniors as they enter the Medicare system, we can use this milestone as an opportunity to address their concerns and manage their chronic pain while reducing risks associated with opioid use. As opioid use disorder continues to increase among older Americans, our seniors need to understand the risks of opioid use and discuss with their physicians the best course of treatment.”

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