OIG Monthly Work Plan Review: February 2019

This month, there were two new Work Plan items. One of these may have implications for some labs and is detailed below. Characteristics of Part D Beneficiaries at Serious Risk of Opioid Misuse or Overdose Issue: In 2017, there were an estimated 49,000 opioid-related overdose deaths in the United States. In a recent data brief, Opioid Use in Medicare Part D Remains Concerning, OIG found that about 71,000 Part D beneficiaries were at serious risk of misuse or overdose in 2017. Gaining a deeper understanding of the beneficiaries OIG identified as at serious risk of misuse or overdose is an important next step in addressing the crisis. OIG Action: An OIG study will provide needed information about: (1) the characteristics of these beneficiaries, including their demographics and diagnoses; (2) the opioid utilization of these beneficiaries; and (3) the extent to which these beneficiaries have had adverse health effects related to opioids and any overdose incidents.