Caring for seniors isn’t just my former profession– it’s a part of my day to day life. After years of working in a nursing home and now caring for my 95-year-old grandmother-in-law, I’ve had a front row seat witnessing the challenges our seniors face in accessing safe and affordable healthcare. These experiences have highlighted one of the big shortcomings of our healthcare system , making me a strong advocate for the Alternatives to Prevent Addiction in the Nation (Alternatives to PAIN) Act.
As part of caring for my grandmother-in-law, I help navigate Medicare paperwork, prescription refills, and doctor’s appointments. Even simple medical procedures can lead to complicated pain management decisions, with the default being opioid prescriptions simply because they’re the most accessible option. Studies show that our senior population faces a disproportionate risk of opioid dependency, often starting with legitimate prescriptions for post-surgical pain.
The Alternatives to PAIN Act, which is currently being considered by leaders in Washington D.C., would ensure Medicare Part D covers FDA-approved non-opioid pain medications. From my nursing home experience, I understand that cost often drives medical decisions for seniors on fixed incomes. One of the most powerful details of this legislation is its requirement that out-of-pocket expenses for non-opioid alternatives cannot exceed the cost of opioid prescriptions. When a senior is recovering from surgery, they shouldn’t have to be prescribed a riskier medication simply because it’s more affordable.
The bill also eliminates so many of the obstacles and frustrations that I’ve seen bring so many seniors and families struggle to deal with. No more waiting for prior authorizations or trying multiple medications before accessing safer alternatives. When you’re helping someone manage post-surgical pain, these delays aren’t just inconvenient – they can push people toward opioids out of desperation for relief.
The Alternatives to PAIN Act offers a practical solution that transcends political divisions. I’m thankful that Representative Troy Balderson has shown leadership by co-sponsoring this crucial legislation. However, as the only member of Ohio’s delegation to do so, we urgently need more of our state’s congressional delegation to step forward and support this common-sense bill.
I often hear stories about seniors who started on pain medication for a routine procedure and struggled to stop. These are our neighbors, friends, and family members who deserve better options. The Alternatives to PAIN Act would ensure that when seniors need pain management, they have immediate access to the safest treatments available.
I urge Ohio’s congressional delegation to join Representative Balderson in supporting this legislation. This isn’t about politics – it’s about doing what’s right by protecting our seniors and giving them real choices in their healthcare. When I look at my grandmother-in-law, I see someone who deserves the best care possible without unnecessary risks. The Alternatives to PAIN Act would help ensure all seniors have that opportunity.
Shannon Murphy, Cleveland
