Texas House Bill HB3313

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to guidelines for prescribing opioid antagonists.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3313 is intended to mitigate the rising incidents of opioid overdoses by equipping both patients and their close contacts with necessary life-saving medications. The bill underscores the importance of proactive measures, training, and awareness in emergency responses to opioid overuse situations. By prescribing these antagonists under specified guidelines, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the potential for fatal outcomes associated with opioid overdoses, thus influencing public health positively.

Summary

House Bill 3313 relates to the establishment of guidelines for prescribing opioid antagonists, a critical component in addressing the opioid crisis. The bill amends the Occupations Code by introducing Chapter 170, which focuses on ensuring that medical professionals have clear guidelines on when and how to prescribe opioid antagonists. This legislation aims to enhance the safety and efficacy of opioid prescriptions by suggesting that physicians should provide opioid antagonists to patients who are at risk of opioid-related overdoses, as well as to individuals who may need to administer the antidote in emergencies.

Contention

While the bill enjoys general support for its focus on public health, some concerns have been raised regarding the balance of responsibility between healthcare providers and patients. Critics argue that guidelines may lead to inconsistencies in prescription practices depending on each provider's interpretation. Questions about liability and legal repercussions for physicians who choose not to prescribe opioid antagonists have also been discussed, revealing the complex dynamics surrounding prescribing practices in light of the opioid crisis.