Humanizing Data: How RxGov Shapes Responsible Opioid Prescribing Practices

Mirrored on LinkedIn from author David Finney

A recent NYT op-ed by Maia Szalavitz, “Say Hello to Your Addiction Risk Score — Courtesy of the Tech Industry,” provides a critical analysis of predictive algorithms used in assessing addiction risks. This is something the team at Leap Orbit has been thinking about for years. As decision-making processes become increasingly opaque–especially as more are augmented by AI and machine learning–there's rightfully increasing scrutiny on how these technologies can perpetuate or even exacerbate systemic and individual biases. We have an ethical obligation to develop methods to detect, mitigate, and prevent bias in algorithms.

Opaque Scoring Systems Amplify Inherent Biases

At Leap Orbit, with our RxGov platform, we staunchly advocate for an approach that respects patient privacy and avoids the pitfalls of reductive, opaque scoring systems.

Our primary concern with products like NarxCare is the reliance on proprietary algorithms that lack transparency and may inadvertently perpetuate biases. These tools can stigmatize patients and potentially influence medical decisions in ways that harm rather than help. For instance, the use of reductive scores can lead to denial of necessary medications as highlighted in the article, where legitimate patients suffer due to a misunderstood "risk score."

Algorithmic Transparency and Ethical AI

In contrast, RxGov focuses on providing comprehensive data and analytics tools without reducing patient profiles to a single score. Our platform supports healthcare providers and policymakers by offering insights derived from broad data sets, including prescription histories and real-time monitoring, without resorting to obscure algorithms.

We believe that effective healthcare solutions should be transparent and equitable. As such, RxGov prioritizes clarity in its methodologies and strives to ensure that our tools are used to enhance understanding rather than create barriers. We also emphasize the importance of integrating clinical judgment and patient-specific factors into a provider’s decision-making process, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach.

Assess Your Options

As the industry continues to evolve, it is imperative that we critically assess the tools and technologies we employ, ensuring they serve the best interests of all patients and contribute positively to public health outcomes.

Learn more about RxGov and how Leap Orbit is dedicated to ethics and transparency in prescription drug monitoring.