Case and commentary : Should the location of a patient's home inform physicians' opioid prescription practices?

Abstract

This case-and-commentary examines whether and when prescribers should authorize prescription opioid refills and questions whether and how a patient's living in an area with a high number of overdose deaths should influence that decision. Clinical social work perspectives presented in the commentary inform a multidisciplinary, team-based approach to this decision that is holistic and nondiscriminatory and that prioritizes the ethical value of self-determination.