Questions for Panel – Opioids in Workplace

Questions for Dr. Michael Erdil

How significant is the current opioid epidemic and what is the impact for employers?

What steps should employers take to address the opioid epidemic and its impact on the workplace?

What are some non-opioid treatment options to address chronic pain?

What treatment options are available for opioid use disorders?

How can employers work better with benefits managers and health care providers to impact the opioid crisis?

What resources are available to help employers?

Questions for David – Recovering Addict

  1. For someone who is in recovery, what is it like getting back into the workforce post addiction? What are the challenges?

  2. 2. When it comes to addiction, what are some of the challenges that one faces with stigma?

Questions for Holly Hinds

  1. Is the opioid crisis really as bad as they say? We know drugs are an issue in the cities but our company and most of our employees are located in the suburbs – could opioids really be a problem for us?
  1. Are we the only company that feels as though we are not adequately prepared for this crisis?
  1. Our company leadership is very focused on building the company – it’s all about the top line revenues. What should I tell leadership about the risks we have if we don’t have a plan and programs to deal with this crisis?
  1. How can we create drug policies that protect us as a company and keep us in compliance yet still support and encourage our employees to come forward for help with their addiction?

Questions for Lois Krause

  1. Why is it important for employers to pay attention to the issue of opioids and the impact that it can have on the workplace?
  1. What are some best practices in terms of developing policies and procedures related to drug or substance misuse and addiction.
  2. What steps can employers and their EAP providers take to prioritize and deliver education to employees?
  1. How can employers support employees who may be struggling with opioid and substance use/misuse? What are the signs and symptoms?
  1. What services, particularly around opioid and substance use/misuse, are currently available for organizations and their employees?
  1. What types of questions should employers be asking their health plan with respect to opioid addiction and what steps are insurers taking to help employers deal with this issue?