Oregon 2023 Regular Session

Oregon Senate Bill SB232

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/14/23  
Report Pass
1/31/23  
Engrossed
2/9/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Report Pass
5/16/23  
Enrolled
5/23/23  
Passed
6/6/23  
Chaptered
6/14/23  

Caption

Relating to the practice of medicine via remote means; and prescribing an effective date.

Impact

The implementation of SB232 is expected to broaden the scope of telemedicine practices within the state, potentially enhancing healthcare accessibility for those who may not have easy access to healthcare facilities. It reflects a growing trend towards integrating technology into the healthcare system, allowing for more flexible healthcare delivery methods. The bill also establishes guidelines which aim to ensure that remote practices are conducted under safe and regulated conditions, tightening the standards for healthcare delivery through telemedicine.

Summary

SB232 focuses on the practice of medicine through remote means, specifically addressing the prescribing of medications via telehealth platforms. This bill aims to expand access to healthcare by allowing physicians to prescribe medications to patients remotely, thereby eliminating some barriers related to in-person consultations. The legislation targets areas where patients may face challenges in accessing traditional healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved regions where medical professionals may be scarce.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB232 appears to be positive, with supporters believing that it will enhance patient care by offering more convenient options for medical consultations and prescriptions. The bill is seen as a progressive step towards adapting to modern healthcare demands and improving patient outcomes. However, there are also concerns among some stakeholders regarding the quality of care in remote settings, and whether virtual assessments are adequate for all medical cases.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB232 revolve around patient safety and the effectiveness of remote consultations. Critics express concerns that prescribing medications without a physical examination may lead to improper prescriptions or the oversight of critical health issues. Additionally, the implementation of any telehealth regulations will require careful scrutiny to ensure that they do not undercut existing patient protections. As telemedicine continues to evolve, establishing a clear balance between accessibility and quality of care remains a significant challenge.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR HB4096

Relating to volunteer health care practitioners; and prescribing an effective date.

OR SB927

Relating to practice of medicine by physician assistants; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB4010

Relating to health care; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB4130

Relating to the practice of health care; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3574

Relating to the practice of health care; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3225

Relating to control of a professional corporation organized for the purpose of practicing medicine; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3042

Relating to Oregon Board of Naturopathic Medicine; and prescribing an effective date.

OR HB2270

Relating to addiction medicine services; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3060

Relating to a physician assistant licensure compact; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3401

Relating to authorizations to practice regulated health professions; prescribing an effective date.

Similar Bills

LA HB702

Provides with respect to the practice of physician assistants

HI SB61

Relating To Associate Physicians.

HI SB61

Relating To Associate Physicians.

CO SB083

Physician Assistant Collaboration Requirements

TN SB2136

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to healthcare providers.

TN HB2318

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to healthcare providers.

TN HB1311

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to graduate physicians.

TN SB0937

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to graduate physicians.