California Assembly Bill AB888

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/19
• Refer: 3/21/19
• Report Pass: 3/21/19
• Refer: 3/25/19
• Report Pass: 4/2/19
• Refer: 4/2/19
• Report Pass: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/22/19
• Report Pass: 5/1/19
• Engrossed: 5/9/19
• Refer: 5/9/19
• Refer: 5/22/19

Caption

Opioid prescriptions: information: nonpharmacological treatments for pain.

Impact

The proposed changes will have significant implications for state healthcare practices by standardizing the approach in discussions surrounding opioid prescriptions. The removal of existing exceptions related to chronic intractable pain treatments encourages prescribers to consider and discuss alternative pain management methodologies with patients. This shift aims to reduce reliance on opioid medications and mitigate the risks related to their use, particularly in vulnerable patient populations.

Summary

Assembly Bill 888 aims to address the opioid crisis in California by enhancing the guidelines for prescribing opioid medications. The bill mandates that prescribers inform all patients, not just minors, about the risk of addiction and overdose associated with opioids before issuing the first prescription in a treatment regimen. Additionally, prescribers are required to discuss nonpharmacological treatment options for pain, thus encouraging alternative therapies to traditional opioid prescriptions.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards AB 888 appears to be generally positive among legislators concerned about the opioid crisis. Legislative findings indicate a commitment to combat addiction and promote awareness of nonpharmacological therapies that have been proven effective. However, potential concerns may arise regarding how prescribers will adjust to these new requirements and whether patients will be adequately informed and supported in their choices of pain management.

Contention

Notable points of contention may include the adequacy of prescriber training and resources available to inform patients about nonpharmacological options adequately. Critics may argue that while the intent of the bill is commendable, practical implementation could be challenging in scenarios where patients definitively require opioid medications. The balance between ensuring proper pain management and preventing addiction is delicate, and stakeholders are likely to voice concerns regarding the ramifications of these regulations.