Exploring the implementation challenges of Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs through the lived experience of health care providers and patients.

Prescription opioid overdose death is a significant global issue. Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMP), which allow healthcare providers to monitor patients’ medication history, have been implemented throughout North America and recently in Australia to address this issue. Unintended harms, including stigma toward people who use these medications has been observed in North America. Little is known about Australia’s PDMP, including if any harms are transpiring here. This thesis attempts to bridge this gap by exploring how PDMP is being understood, implemented, and experienced by Victorian healthcare providers and patients. Thesis findings are used to support PDMP implementation, policy and development.