Issue:
Physicians have the challenge of prescribing opioids to balance the ability of opioids to relieve pain and improve function while minimizing side effects and risks.
Objectives:
The study will:
• Compare previous, during, and post WCB claim opioid use in Manitoba WCB claimants for whom opioids were prescribed;
• Identify what proportion of chronic opioid use for non-cancer pain in Manitoba is related to WCB compensable injuries; and
• Compare opioid duration and dose amongst WCB recipients with other Manitobans after controlling for demographic and diagnostic factors.
Anticipated Results:
Information about the prescription and use of opioids will assist WCB Manitoba in its mandate to ensure the healthcare it administers is appropriate for injured workers.
Investigators:
Dr. Allen Kraut (University of Manitoba)
