Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB460

Caption

Relating to the dispensing of certain drugs by physicians.

Impact

The implications of HB 460 are significant for both patient care and state regulations surrounding pharmacy practices. By allowing physicians to dispense medications, particularly in urgent situations, the bill could streamline drug access for patients and reduce delays associated with traditional pharmacy systems. This could particularly benefit rural communities, where pharmacy access may be limited. However, the bill ensures that physicians still comply with existing laws regarding dangerous drugs, helping to maintain safety standards in drug dispensing.

Summary

House Bill 460 focuses on the dispensing of certain drugs by physicians, aiming to clarify and expand the authority of licensed physicians to supply medication directly to patients. The bill includes amendments to the Occupations Code that allow physicians to provide drugs necessary for immediate patient needs without needing to establish a retail pharmacy. This change intends to enhance patient care by enabling timely access to necessary medications directly from their healthcare provider.

Contention

There are several notable points of contention surrounding HB 460. Critics may express concerns about the potential for misuse of the expanded authority, questioning whether physicians have the necessary training to manage the dispensing of dangerous drugs effectively. Furthermore, opponents could argue that the bill might undermine the role of pharmacists and disrupt the established pharmacy business model. Balancing the needs for quicker patient access to drugs while ensuring safety and proper oversight is a key concern that continues to be debated.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB595

Relating to the dispensing of certain drugs by physicians.

TX SB160

Relating to the furnishing by pharmacists and dispensing by physicians of certain medications.

TX HB1240

Relating to the authority of a physician to provide and dispense and to delegate authority to provide and dispense certain drugs.

TX HB2078

Relating to the authority of a physician to provide and dispense and to delegate authority to provide and dispense certain drugs.

TX SB127

Relating to the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, transportation, and delivery of medical cannabis for use by patients as the best available medical treatment, the licensing of medical cannabis dispensing organizations, and the registration of certain individuals; authorizing fees.

TX HB2995

Relating to the prescribing of medical cannabis for medical use to certain veterans with combat-related injuries or medical conditions and the licensing of dispensing organizations under the Texas Compassionate Use Program.

TX HB1200

Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, transportation, and delivery of medical cannabis for medical use by qualifying patients with certain debilitating medical conditions and the licensing of dispensing organizations and cannabis testing facilities; authorizing fees.

TX HB343

Relating to the prescriptive authority of certain psychologists; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4071

Relating to the licensing and regulation of advanced practice registered nurses.

TX SB1700

Relating to the licensing and authority of advanced practice registered nurses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.