Opioid analgesics were prescribed in 15% (N=206,024) of total visits and in 80% (N=169,106) of all inpatient stays. Pain scores were available in 15% (N=198,951) of total visits, with patients reporting severe pain in 53% (N=105,068) of those visits. Opioid analgesics were prescribed in 20% (N=7,305), 28% (N=16,029), and 43% (N=45,488) of visits with a mild, moderate, or severe pain score, respectively. Conclusions: This large database analysis examines patient-reported pain scores and opioid usage for osteoarthritis-related visits and provides initial insights into potentially relevant medication prescribing practices in both inpatient and noninpatient settings. It highlights opioid use even in mild and moderate pain, especially when there are other non-opioid options indicated. Given the current opioid epidemic, there may be opportunities for improved prescribing.
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