Effect of Peer Comparison Feedback on Opioid Prescribing by Emergency Medicine Providers

State-based Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) are being implemented to reduce prescription drug abuse and diversion. On August 24, 2016, Pennsylvania initiated its mandated PDMP. In prior research, we found that ED providers reduced opioid prescribing by 17% immediately after PDMP went live. Still, there is variability between providers in the frequency of opioid prescribing even after PDMP initiation. Changing clinician prescribing behavior is difficult, but recent research has shown that using peer comparisons can assist behavior change (Meeker D et al., JAMA, 2016). In this study, we will randomize a convenience sample of ED providers to receive either their opioid prescribing history data with peer comparative data or without peer comparative data. We will examine the effect on immediate perceived norms as well as impact on opioid prescribing in the subsequent 3 months. Results could inform behavioral feedback to alter clinician prescribing behaviors