What is the purpose of the I-STOP Prescription Monitoring Program?

The purpose of the I-STOP Prescription Monitoring Program is to track over-prescribing of controlled substances. This program is designed to address the growing concern of prescription drug abuse and ensure that controlled substances are prescribed and dispensed responsibly. By monitoring prescriptions, the program aims to identify patterns of misuse, such as excessive prescribing or "doctor shopping," where individuals obtain prescriptions from multiple healthcare providers. This tracking helps to promote patient safety, improve prescribing practices, and prevent opioid misuse and dependence.

The other options represent different goals that are not the primary focus of this program. Although reducing prescription costs and monitoring patient adherence are significant concerns in healthcare, they do not align with the specific aim of I-STOP, which centers on reducing the risk of over-prescribing and misuse of controlled substances. Providing information on pharmacy locations is also outside the scope of the program's objectives, which concentrate more on surveillance and management of prescription practices rather than logistical information about pharmacies.