Indiana House Bill HB1384

Indiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/22
• Refer: 1/13/22

Caption

Purchase of insulin needles.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1384 would significantly impact state regulations governing pharmacy practices, particularly in how they relate to the treatment of diabetes. The elimination of quantity limitations on these medical supplies is intended to enhance patient care and accessibility, allowing individuals with diabetes to obtain adequate supplies without having to frequently return to a pharmacy. This provision is expected to alleviate concerns among patients regarding the availability of necessary medical supplies critical for their health management.

Summary

House Bill 1384 aims to amend the Indiana Code concerning the dispensing of insulin and related supplies by prohibiting the Indiana Board of Pharmacy from establishing quantity limitations on hypodermic syringes, needles, or insulin prescribed for diabetes treatment. This legislation seeks to ensure that patients have sufficient access to these essential items without arbitrary restrictions that may hinder their ability to manage diabetes effectively. The bill is proposed to become effective on July 1, 2022.

Contention

While the bill presents benefits in terms of improving access to medical supplies, it may also face scrutiny regarding potential overreach by the state board in unregulated dispensing practices. Stakeholders, including healthcare providers and pharmacists, may voice concerns about how such amendments could affect the medication management process and the responsibilities of pharmacists when dispensing controlled quantities of medical supplies. Handling these concerns will be crucial as discussions proceed around the bill's implications for public health policy.