This amendment is designed to enhance the treatment of individuals with substance use disorders by simplifying the prescription process for healthcare practitioners working in specialized environments. By allowing these practitioners to forego the CURES database consults in certain circumstances, it aims to reduce administrative delays that could hinder timely access to necessary medications. This could be particularly beneficial for patients involved in ongoing treatment programs, ensuring continuity of care and adherence to treatment plans.
Summary
Assembly Bill 1343 amends Section 11165.4 of the Health and Safety Code, introducing an additional exception for health care practitioners employed by substance use disorder treatment clinics. This exception allows these practitioners to bypass the requirement to consult the Controlled Substances Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES) database before prescribing controlled substances to patients enrolled in their treatment programs, provided there have been consultations within the prior six months. The CURES database is maintained by the Department of Justice and is designed to monitor the prescribing and dispensing of specified controlled substances to prevent misuse and abuse.
Contention
While proponents argue that AB 1343 facilitates better care for individuals in substance use disorder treatment by minimizing obstacles for practitioners, critics may express concern over the potential for reduced oversight in the prescription of controlled substances. The primary contention revolves around balancing the need for rapid medical intervention and the essential safeguards intended to curb prescription abuse. Stakeholders in the healthcare and regulatory sectors may have varying opinions on whether such exceptions adequately protect patient safety while promoting effective treatment.
Revises sections of the uniform controlled substances act to remove specific opioid dosage requirements, revises the uniform controlled substances act in accordance with current standards of professional practice and would repeal chapter 37.4 of title 5.