Texas House Bill HB3230

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/2/23

Caption

Relating to the prescribing or ordering of a controlled substance or dangerous drug or device by an advanced practice registered nurse or physician assistant under a prescriptive authority agreement.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3230 would amend existing laws in Texas concerning the prescribing capabilities of APRNs and PAs. By enforcing a structured prescriptive authority agreement and requiring a physician-patient relationship for controlled substances, the bill intends to streamline the prescribing process while maintaining patient safety. This legislation is expected to impact state laws surrounding the delegation of medical tasks and the role of non-physician providers in the healthcare system, possibly leading to increased efficiency in patient care for chronic and short-term conditions requiring immediate pharmacological interventions.

Summary

House Bill 3230 seeks to clarify and regulate the authority of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs) regarding the prescribing or ordering of controlled substances and dangerous drugs or devices. The bill stipulates that such delegation from a physician must be established under a prescriptive authority agreement, emphasizing that APRNs or PAs can only prescribe controlled substances for patients whom the delegating physician has an established relationship with. This provision aims to ensure continuity and safety in prescribing practices, reinforcing the importance of a physician's role in the patient care process while extending the capabilities of qualified nursing and assistant practitioners.

Sentiment

The sentiment toward HB 3230 appears to be generally supportive, especially among healthcare professionals who advocate for the empowerment of APRNs and PAs in managing patient care. Proponents argue that this bill would alleviate some of the burdens on physicians and enhance patient access to necessary medications, particularly in underserved areas. However, there may be some contention from groups concerned about patient safety and the preservation of the physician's role in the healthcare decision-making process, pointing to the need for careful monitoring and regulations that ensure delegate practices do not compromise care quality.

Contention

One of the key points of contention involves the sufficiency of the physician's oversight and the implications of expanding the prescribing authority of non-physician providers. Critics may argue that while prescribing authority can enhance healthcare access, it also carries risks related to prescribing practices and patient safety. The debate centers around finding a balance between empowering advanced practice nurses and physician assistants and ensuring a robust system of checks and monitoring by physicians to prevent potential misuse or misprescribing of controlled substances.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

• Chapter 157. Authority Of Physician To Delegate Certain Medical Acts
  • Section: 0512