Prescription opioids are a problem in every county, every zip code.

I want to make sure folks who are here can see this, too, and, so, kind of make it personal for the rest of the hearing.

A number of recent studies have concluded, as Senator Kaine mentioned, that opioids are not very effective in treating chronic non-cancer pain or improving function and can cause a number of harmful side effects.

We need comprehensive increases in rates, and we need providers to start offering this life-saving treatment.

Well, if there is a promising sign in the midst of all these challenges, the fact that this is not politically divisive, at least not in the strict partisan way, is a positive sign, so that means that evidence-based solutions, we ought to…

We need to educate them that you cannot--if you did not use them, get rid of them.

The Co-Prescribing Saving Lives Act sponsored by Senator Kaine is also an important step in the right direction.

It is a very, very significant challenge.

Eighty percent of patients who had a non-fatal overdose were able to go back and get additional opioids prescribed by their caregiver.

most law enforcement that I speak to recognize that it is also a public health issue as much as it is law enforcement

This epidemic is really one that is going to require a comprehensive approach, and part of that is going to include removing the stigma around addiction.

Senator Kaine is sponsoring S. 2256, which, if enacted, would include training for prescribers in co-prescribing naloxone whenever opioid pain medication is prescribed.

This is a huge problem.

I have a 90-year-old mother-in-law who fell 2 days before Christmas and was in the hospital for a fall.

you talked about, and others, too, your strong support for the CDC prescriber guidelines.

I cannot remember, Ms. Wilkins, if it was your testimony or one of the other witnesses, that often the patient's perception is so very different than a family member's perception.

I have concerns that prescribers are writing--are able to write for such a large number of these pills when maybe five are enough.

You may miss an opportunity.