Opioid epidemic As the years progress, prescription medications become a bigger portion of the medical expense, which is especially true if the injured worker has become dependent or addicted to opioid medication. (Image: Shutterstock)

Generally, prescription drug costs account for approximately 14% of a workers' compensation claim. While prescription drug usage has decreased in recent years, the prices of prescription drugs continue to rise. The number of opioid prescriptions continues to decrease as physicians opt for alternative treatments for work injuries.

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