In a decisive move to combat the alarming rise in drug overdoses, the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) Narcotics Enforcement Division (NED) is rolling out improvements to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP). This upgraded system aims to save lives by integrating patients’ prescription histories for controlled substances directly into their electronic health records.

The enhancement allows healthcare providers to quickly identify potentially dangerous prescription drug quantities or combinations, helping to prevent overdoses and reducing the risk of substance use disorders.

Partnering with Bamboo Health, the vendor behind the PDMP, NED is spearheading the initiative to provide healthcare professionals with advanced tools for informed decision-making.

“Advanced prescription monitoring improves the quality of care in our communities and combats the rise in drug overdoses. We are empowering our healthcare providers with the tools they need to make informed decisions and improve health outcomes for the people of Hawai‘i,” said Michael Hartsock, NED Acting Administrator.

The initiative is funded by a $346,000 annual grant awarded to the Hawai‘i Department of Health through the CDC’s Overdose Data to Action in States program.

Healthcare providers and pharmacies are encouraged to enroll in Bamboo Health’s PMP Gateway to take full advantage of the upgraded monitoring system. With this step forward, Hawai‘i aims to enhance community care and curb preventable tragedies.