Oklahoma House Bill HB2148

Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

Controlled dangerous substances; terms; pain management clinics; Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control; exemptions; registration procedures; compliance; suspension; licensed prescriber; designated administrator; operations requirements; infection control; data collection; reporting; written policy; investigation by Bureau; penalties; rules; effective date.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2148 will significantly alter the landscape for pain management services within the state. By requiring clinics to register and adhere to strict operational guidelines, the bill aims to enhance the oversight of pain management practices, which is especially pertinent given the current opioid crisis. Registration will not only help prevent unauthorized practices but also ensure that clinics maintain a standard of care and accountability in their treatment methods, thereby potentially reducing instances of misuse or abuse of prescribed medications.

Summary

House Bill 2148 focuses on the regulation of pain management clinics in Oklahoma. The bill mandates that such clinics must register with the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control while defining terms such as 'chronic nonmalignant pain.' It lays out specific registration procedures and establishes requirements for clinics that provide pain management services primarily through controlled substances, emphasizing compliance with infection control and operational standards. Clinics must employ licensed prescribers and designate administrators responsible for regulatory adherence.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding this bill include concerns about increased administrative burdens on pain management clinics, particularly smaller practices that may struggle to meet the new regulatory requirements. Additionally, the penalties for non-compliance, which include significant fines and the potential loss of clinic registration, have been criticized as harsh. There is a fear among healthcare providers that these regulations could limit access to necessary pain management therapies for patients, especially those with chronic pain conditions that require ongoing treatment.