WAC 296-20-03056. Opioid authorization requirement for the subacute phase (6-12 weeks)

Before the department or self-insurer authorizes payment for opioids beyond the acute phase, the provider must perform and document the following: • Verify that the worker had clinically meaningful improvement in function and pain with the use of opioids in the acute phase. • If indicated, use a validated instrument to screen the worker for comorbid psychiatric conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, or post traumatic stress disorder) which may impact the response to opioid treatment. • Verify that the worker has no contraindication to the use of opioids. • Access the state's prescription monitoring program database, if available, to ensure that the controlled substance history is consistent with the prescribing record and the worker's report. • Use a validated screening instrument to verify the absence of a current substance use disorder (excluding nicotine) or a history of opioid use disorder. • Administer a baseline urine drug test to verify the absence of cocaine, amphetamines, alcohol, and nonprescribed opioids. • Verify that the worker has no evidence of or is not at high risk for serious adverse outcomes from opioid use.