Narcotic drugs account for nearly one quarter of workers' comp prescription costs, according to a new industry study by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). Despite the serious risks associated with narcotics use, some physicians prescribe narcotics for minor injuries, such as sprained ankles. This practice, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), can be dangerous.
The NCCI study found:
o Narcotics account for nearly one quarter of all workers' comp prescription costs. This share of cost has been relatively constant since service year 2000.
o The narcotics share of drug costs increases as claims age.
o Narcotics costs per claim vary by state. For instance, Midwestern states tend to be lower-cost and coastal states higher.
o Narcotics are used mostly for back injuries in workers' comp.
o Narcotics use early in the life of claims is increasing.
o Narcotics use can persist for years.
The FDA is currently establishing a new federal program designed to ensure the safe, appropriate use of narcotics.
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