A Health System Wide Evaluation of Clinical Decision Support Tools to Improve PDMP Utilization and Patient Outcomes

This is a study comparing three clinical decision support (CDS) tools to enhance care by easing health care provider review of the Colorado prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) prior to prescribing opioids (pain medications often called narcotics) or benzodiazepines (sedatives or muscle relaxants). The tools screen information from the PDMP (a statewide database of filled controlled medication) and a patient's medical record to identify high-risk factors for overdose. The tools only appear when relevant, are purely informational to facilitate an evidence-based practice (PDMP review) and do not dictate care or suggest changes in treatment. The study will track how each of the tools are used and if providers use the PDMP. Secondary outcomes include if a controlled medication prescription was written and future opioid use by patients.