DEA's Rod Marriott invited to discuss fentanyl access issues in fall meeting

Concerns over access to vital IV medications, particularly in light of a potential fentanyl shortage, dominated discussions at the recent Palliative Care Advisory Council meeting in Connecticut. Members expressed frustration over ongoing challenges in obtaining necessary medications, highlighting a lack of awareness among federal officials regarding the severity of the issue.

During the meeting, a council member recounted a conversation with Rod Marriott from the DEA, who appeared surprised by the concerns raised about medication access. This prompted a call for Marriott to attend a future meeting to provide insights and potentially address the barriers faced by healthcare providers.

The council is eager to facilitate a dialogue with Marriott, believing that his involvement could shed light on the complexities surrounding medication availability and help identify solutions. The urgency of this issue underscores the council's commitment to ensuring that patients receive the palliative care they need without unnecessary delays.

As the council prepares for its fall meetings, members are hopeful that engaging with federal representatives will lead to improved access to essential medications, ultimately enhancing the quality of care for patients in need.