Relating to the prescribing and ordering of Schedule II controlled substances by certain advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants.
Impact
If enacted, SB433 would significantly alter the existing regulations overseeing prescription authority within Texas. By formalizing the provision for APRNs and PAs to prescribe Schedule II drugs, the bill could lead to a broader availability of controlled medications, potentially benefiting patients who rely on these treatments but face barriers in accessing prescribers. The Texas healthcare system is anticipated to experience a shift in the landscape of care delivery, allowing for more decentralized and responsive medical services, especially in rural areas.
Summary
SB433 proposes amendments to the Occupations Code, specifically focusing on the authority of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs) to prescribe Schedule II controlled substances. The bill allows pharmacists at Class A pharmacies to dispense these controlled substances provided they have been prescribed by an APRN or PA who has been delegated the authority by a physician. This legislative effort aims to enhance healthcare access, particularly in areas underserved by traditional healthcare providers by allowing qualified individuals to prescribe necessary medications.
Contention
Despite its intended benefits, SB433 may face opposition regarding concerns over patient safety and the robustness of training and oversight provided to APRNs and PAs. Critics could argue that such a significant expansion of prescribing authority must be coupled with stringent guidelines and monitoring to prevent misuse or over-prescription of controlled substances. Supporters, however, are likely to emphasize the necessity of such measures to alleviate logistical difficulties that patients face in obtaining prescriptions for essential medications.
Identical
Relating to the prescribing and ordering of Schedule II controlled substances by certain advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants.
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.
Relating to the authority of a physician to supervise or delegate the prescribing or ordering of a drug or device to a physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.
Relating to the authority of a physician to supervise or delegate the prescribing or ordering of a drug or device to a physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.
Relating to the authority of a physician to supervise or delegate the prescribing or ordering of a drug or device to a physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse.