By: Anton C. Bizzell, M.D.

December 10, 2013 – Opioid analgesics have become controversial drugs that are widely used for the management of moderate to severe pain, but are widely abuse and diverted for non-medical purposes. While there has been a marked decrease in the use of some illegal drugs, data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) show that nearly one-third of people aged 12 and over who used drugs for the first time in 2009 began by using a prescription drug non-medically.

Addressing the prescription drug abuse epidemic is a top priority for The Bizzell Group (Bizzell). Our staff designs, develops, and delivers specialized training and technical assistance for health care providers—from physicians to psychologists, social workers, substance abuse treatment staff, and peer counselors. We understand which tools and resources are the most effective for reaching and communicating with multiple specialized audiences including adults, teens, teachers, and medical professionals. In addition, we support the development and dissemination of sound educational programs for not only health providers, but also for the American public and other stakeholders.

“We provide comprehensive programs of support for efforts to reduce the burden of prescription drug use, misuse, and abuse on the American people”, says Anton Bizzell, MD, Bizzell’s CEO. “Currently, we are offering technical assistance and training that includes developing education courses for physicians, developing educational materials for dissemination, conducting literature reviews and analyses, developing and compiling best practices materials, and providing logistical support for meetings across the U.S”.