Tennessee Senate Bill SB2246

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Chaptered: 5/28/24
• Passed: 5/28/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33; Title 53; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to buprenorphine.

Impact

The changes outlined in SB2246 potentially expand access to buprenorphine, a critical medication used in the treatment of opioid use disorder. By permitting providers to oversee more patients, particularly in accredited treatment facilities, the legislation could enhance the ability of these facilities to meet patient needs. This amendment could significantly influence state healthcare laws by establishing a more flexible approach to opioid treatment and management, addressing the complex landscape of addiction recovery efforts in Tennessee.

Summary

Senate Bill 2246 seeks to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically addressing the regulation of buprenorphine prescriptions and management of patients in treatment settings. The bill proposes to modify current limits on the number of patients a provider can prescribe buprenorphine to, allowing for increased patient capacity in accredited facilities. In essence, it aims to streamline treatment practices related to opioid addiction, recognizing the need for managing more patients in accredited facilities to address the ongoing opioid crisis effectively.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB2246 appears to be supportive, particularly among healthcare providers and advocates for addiction treatment. Proponents argue that the bill will facilitate better care for patients struggling with opioid addiction by providing necessary resources and support in treatment environments. However, there may be dissenting opinions from some stakeholders concerned about the implications of increasing patient limits without stringent oversight, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to addiction treatment.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns regarding the potential for over-prescribing medications and the adequacy of oversight for the increased patient limits. Critics may argue that while the intention of improving access to treatment is commendable, there are risks associated with expanding patient limits without appropriate regulatory measures. This conversation reflects broader issues in addressing addiction, where the balance between accessibility and safety must be carefully managed to avoid exacerbating the crisis.