Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SB441

Introduced
1/31/24  
Refer
2/1/24  
Introduced
1/31/24  

Caption

Controlled Substances; notification requirements for prescribers prescribing opioids; revise

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to enhance patient safety by promoting informed decision-making among those prescribed opioids. By requiring discussions on risks and alternatives, the legislation aims to reduce opioid misuse and dependency rates within the state. Exemptions for specific patient groups, such as those in active cancer treatment or residing in long-term care facilities, indicate a tailored approach considering the complexities of particular medical scenarios. This could potentially lead to a decrease in opioid-related incidents and improve overall public health outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 441 focuses on the regulation of opioid prescriptions in Georgia. It mandates that prescribers must inform patients about the risks associated with opioid use, including the potential for addiction, dependence, and fatal overdose. Additionally, prescribers are required to document discussions concerning these risks in the patient's medical record. The bill places a significant emphasis on ensuring that patients are aware of the dangers of opioids, particularly when combined with other substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines. Furthermore, prescribers must provide information on available alternatives to opioids and safe disposal methods for any unused medications.

Contention

Opponents of SB441 may argue that the added administrative burden on prescribers could hinder timely patient care, particularly for those in acute pain situations who might require immediate opioid prescriptions. Critics might express concerns that the documentation requirements may create barriers for prescribers, particularly in high-volume practice settings. It remains to be debated how the bill will address the balance between patient safety and the need for accessible pain management, especially in urgent care situations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB1352

Pharmacists; prescribers provide certain information to patients or their representatives on Schedule II controlled substances or opioids

GA HB2811

Relating to the prescribing of controlled substances and dangerous drugs for acute pain.

GA HB3073

Controlled dangerous substances; adding exception to opioid prescription requirements.

GA HB2117

Relating to the prescribing of controlled substances and dangerous drugs for acute pain.

GA HB2686

Requiring a prescriber discuss the risks of certain addictive controlled substances and alternatives to such substances with a patient before issuing a prescription for such subtances.

GA SB1109

Controlled substances: Schedule II drugs: opioids.

GA SB813

Relating to the prescribing of opioids.

GA SB607

Controlled substances.

GA H5615

Revises sections of the uniform controlled substances act to remove specific opioid dosage requirements, revises the uniform controlled substances act in accordance with current standards of professional practice and would repeal chapter 37.4 of title 5.

GA SB57

Controlled dangerous substances; authorizing certain access to central repository; patient request; unsolicited notification; prescription limits. Emergency.

Similar Bills

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CA AB2585

Prescribed burns: burn managers: liability.

CA AB2741

Prescription drugs: opioid medications: minors.

CA AB771

Burning of forest lands: forest land owners.

CA AB2091

Fire prevention: prescribed burns: insurance pool.

IN HB1557

Prescribed burning.

AR SB415

To Establish The Arkansas Prescribed Burning Act.

CA AB2086

Controlled substances: CURES database.