If a licensee has a DEA license, how many hours of Continuing Education on opioid use are required?

A licensee with a DEA license is required to complete 3 hours of Continuing Education specifically focused on opioid use. This requirement reflects the increasing emphasis on understanding the implications of opioid prescribing, including recognizing abuse and addiction risks associated with these medications.

The rationale behind this requirement is to ensure that optometrists, as healthcare providers authorized to prescribe medication, remain informed about best practices in pain management and are equipped with knowledge to make safe prescribing decisions. The hours dedicated to opioid education help practitioners stay current with regulations, guidelines, and strategies for addressing the opioid crisis effectively, ultimately enhancing patient safety and care.

This requirement underscores the growing need for healthcare professionals to be vigilant about the potential for opioid misuse and to engage in ongoing education related to their practice, aligning with wider public health goals. The other potential choices reflect different amounts of education but do not meet the specific stipulation set forth for those with a DEA license.