Newswise — (Chicago, July 25, 2016) James A. Tacci, MD, JD, President of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM), issued the following statement today regarding passage of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA):

“Opioid prescription abuse is a serious national issue, and it has been particularly harmful for many patients with chronic pain related to a workplace injury or illness who have been treated with opioids and who are now struggling with addiction.”

“ACOEM applauds the passage of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), which includes many provisions that states can draw upon to help reduce issues of opioid abuse in their workforce populations.”

“But the effectiveness of CARA will depend on new financial resources to help achieve its goals. Adequate federal funding for addiction and treatment programs will maximize CARA’s impact and help more people in need.”

“ACOEM urges Congress to provide additional funding to support this bill as we strive to keep our American workforce healthy and productive.”

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About ACOEMThe American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) represents more than 4,000 physicians specializing in occupational and environmental medicine. Founded in 1916, ACOEM is the nation’s largest medical society dedicated to promoting the health of workers through preventive medicine, clinical care, disability management, research, and education. For more information, visit www.acoem.org.