CPSO Updates Prescribing Policy to Clarify Expectations for Safer Supply Prescribing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Toronto, ON - The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) has approved targeted amendments to its Prescribing Drugs policy to clarify expectations for safer supply prescribing.

The changes were approved by CPSO’s Board of Directors on May 28, following feedback from physicians and system partners, and in response to the evolving landscape in this complex area of practice.

The updated policy reinforces expectations for physicians who prescribe safer supply by requiring them to:

• conduct an in-person comprehensive patient assessment before initiating safer supply
• offer opioid agonist therapy as part of the assessment before initiating safer supply
• complete in-person assessments at least once every three months if safer supply is prescribed on an ongoing basis.

These amendments are intended to improve prescribing practices and optimize patient care in an area with significant safety considerations.

“Safer supply prescribing is a complex and evolving area of care, with important considerations for both patient and public safety,” said Dr. Nancy Whitmore, Registrar and CEO of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. “These targeted amendments are intended to ensure physicians are meeting the standard of care, while reinforcing clear expectations for assessment and follow-up that help mitigate risk.”

The policy does not prohibit safer supply prescribing. It continues to recognize the importance of physician clinical judgement while outlining expectations that promote safe, evidence-informed practice.

CPSO noted that, while these amendments are an important step, they are not a complete solution to the broader challenges associated with drug diversion and the toxic drug supply.

As a medical regulator, CPSO’s role is to set expectations for physician practice in the public interest. These changes represent an important step within its mandate to support safer care in a complex and evolving landscape.

CPSO will continue to monitor emerging evidence and feedback from physicians, patients, and system partners, and will review and update its policies as needed to ensure they remain responsive to evolving best practices.

For more information contact [email protected].