Alaska 2023-2024 Regular Session

Alaska House Bill HB96

Introduced
3/6/23  
Report Pass
4/14/23  
Introduced
3/6/23  
Report Pass
4/14/23  

Caption

Licensing:drugs/devices For Home Dialysis

Impact

By enacting HB96, Alaska seeks to enhance control over the distribution of medical products pertinent to home dialysis. The legislation will modify existing laws related to drug distribution to include stringent provisions for the licensing of wholesale distributors, aiming to reduce risks associated with unauthorized and potentially dangerous distribution practices. This amendment is expected to protect vulnerable patients while simultaneously providing them accessibility to necessary medical supplies under safer conditions. The implications of these changes could lead to increased accountability and higher quality assurance standards within the state’s healthcare delivery system.

Summary

House Bill 96 (HB96) aims to establish new licensing and registration requirements for certain wholesale drug distributors, specifically focusing on those involved in the distribution of drugs and devices for home dialysis. The bill emphasizes regulating the distribution processes to ensure compliance with ethical standards and safety protocols. It prohibits the distribution of drugs directly to patients unless specific conditions are met, including FDA approval and proper packaging. The bill intends to safeguard patient health and streamline procedures surrounding essential medical supplies for home dialysis, particularly for individuals with end-stage renal disease.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB96 is largely supportive among stakeholders concerned with healthcare quality, particularly for patients requiring home dialysis. Advocates argue that such legislation is necessary to ensure safe access to medical supplies and to prevent fraud and abuse in the distribution network. However, there are some concerns expressed by opposition members regarding potential overregulation that may affect the availability and affordability of essential medical products. Overall, the debate emphasizes balancing patient safety and potential regulatory burdens on distributors.

Contention

One notable area of contention is the balance between regulatory compliance and accessibility for patients in need. Critics of HB96 argue that while the intent to ensure safety is commendable, overly stringent regulations may hinder timely access to necessary supplies, which can be especially critical for patients dependent on immediate availability of medications and devices for dialysis. Some voices in the discussion emphasize the need for a more nuanced approach that maintains oversight without compromising patient care. The legislation could spark further discussions about how best to regulate the medical supply chain while keeping patient safety at the forefront.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AK AB110

Makes revisions governing the dispensing and delivery of certain dialysate drugs and devices used to perform dialysis. (BDR 54-616)

AK S4601

Establishes pharmacist licensing exemption for certain dialysis-related drugs and devices.

AK HB112

Profession Of Pharmacy

AK SB718

Pharmacy; providing exception to pharmacy requirements for facilities distributing or dispensing dialysate or devices necessary for peritoneal dialysis. Effective date.

AK SB94

Profession Of Pharmacy

AK HB497

Exempts certain facilities that provide home dialysis drugs or devices from the provisions of the La. Pharmacy Practice Act

AK HB226

Pharmacies/pharmacists/benefits Managers

AK HB96

Home Care Employment Standards Adv Board

AK SB473

Relating To The Practice Of Pharmacy.

AK SB131

State Medicaid program; creating the "Ensuring Access to Medicaid Act"; creating certain requirements for and prohibiting certain actions by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, managed care organizations and dental benefit managers; creating MC Quality Advisory Committee. Effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.