Exparel launched a new patient website with resources for individuals planning to undergo surgery.
The website includes a section of questions to ask physicians about postsurgical pain management that can help patients gain knowledge about the surgical plan. They should learn about the potential side effects as well as whether their surgeon plans to include opioids/narcotics in their care plan.
While many people rely on opioids to manage postoperative pain, it can have side effects including nausea, vomiting and constipation. Data also shows one in 15 patients who report taking opioids after surgery become long-term users.
The website includes information about Exparel, a long-acting local anesthetic that does not contain narcotics. The website includes resources for patient education as well as a resource for finding local physicians and surgeons who use Exparel.
Over the past six months, some private payers and CMS have made policy changes for Exparel coverage in select situations for ASCs. Learn more about Exparel in a free webinar titled "CMS Reimburses Non-Opioid Postsurgical Pain Management in the ASC: A Review of the New CMS Rules and Opportunity for ASCs." Click here to register for the webinar and learn more about coding and billing for Exparel under the new rules.