WAC 246-918-900. Tapering considerations — Chronic pain

Not all chronic pain patients will need their opioid prescriptions tapered. Relying on medical decision making and patient-centered treatment, the physician assistant shall consider tapering or referral for a substance use disorder evaluation when: (1) The patient requests; (2) The patient experiences a deterioration in function or pain; (3) The patient is noncompliant with the written agreement; (4) Other treatment modalities are indicated; (5) There is evidence of misuse, abuse, substance use disorder, or diversion; (6) The patient experiences a severe adverse event or overdose; (7) There is unauthorized escalation of doses; or (8) The patient is receiving an escalation in opioid dosage with no improvement in their pain or function.