Maryland House Bill HB1227

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/23
• Refer: 2/13/23
• Refer: 3/6/23

Caption

Prescription Drug Monitoring Program - Dispensers - Veterinarians

Impact

One of the major impacts of HB 1227 is that it modifies existing laws governing the PDMP, enabling veterinarians to adhere to the same prescription monitoring requirements that are obligatory for human practitioners. Although the bill does not mandate the PDMP to disclose prescription data to veterinarians, it aims to streamline drug monitoring processes within the veterinary community. This move is seen as necessary for improving animal health outcomes while managing the risks associated with controlled substances.

Summary

House Bill 1227 addresses the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) in Maryland by expanding the definition of 'dispenser' to include licensed veterinarians. This legislative change is significant as it recognizes veterinarians as dispensers of controlled substances specifically when they are providing care to animals. Consequently, it aims to enhance the veterinary medicine field's compliance with drug dispensing regulations and monitoring protocols.

Contention

While many in the veterinary field may see this bill as a step forward in regulating and tracking medication, there are points of contention as well. Critics may argue about the implications of including veterinarians in the prescription drug monitoring system, particularly concerning privacy and data sharing concerns. There is a fear that the increased oversight could complicate or hinder veterinary practices, especially in rural areas where accessibility to animal health care is already a challenge.