While PDMPs are potentially an important tool to prevent the nonmedical use of prescribed controlled substances, their impact is not reflected in drug overdose mortality rates. Their effect on overall consumption of opioids appears to be minimal. PDMP managers need to develop and test ways to improve the use of their data to affect the problem of prescription drug overdoses.

Patients being prescribed opioid analgesics frequently or at high dosage face a substantial overdose risk. Prescription monitoring programs might be the best way for prescribers to know their patients' prescription histories and accurately assess overdose risk.

Development of effective public health information systems requires understanding public health informatics (PHI), the systematic application of information and computer science and technology to public health practice, research, and learning. PHI is distinguished from other informatics specialties by its focus on prevention in populations, use of a wide range of interventions to achieve its goals, and the constraints of operating in a governmental context. The current need for PHI arises from dramatic improvements in information technology, new pressures on the public health system, and changes in medical care delivery. Application of PHI principles provides unprecedented opportunities to build healthier communities.