Codifies certain regulatory provisions regarding controlled dangerous substances and prescription monitoring.
Impact
The bill will amend previous legislation (P.L.2017, c.341) to enhance the framework for prescribing opioids by implementing specific requirements. Notably, practitioners will need to document comprehensive medical histories, conduct physical examinations, develop treatment plans, and utilize prescription monitoring programs before issuing prescriptions. Furthermore, there are restrictions on prescribing practices, limiting initial prescriptions for acute pain to no more than a five-day supply and establishing protocols for ongoing assessments. The bill aims to reduce the risk of opioid misuse and addiction while providing necessary care for patients dealing with chronic pain.
Summary
Assembly Bill A3630 seeks to codify certain regulatory provisions regarding the prescription and monitoring of controlled dangerous substances, specifically focusing on opioids. The main objectives of the bill include establishing more stringent guidelines for practitioners prescribing opioid medications, requiring systematic monitoring to combat prescription drug abuse, and ensuring that physicians take substantial steps to evaluate and manage patients' pain, as well as the potential risks involved in opioid treatment. The bill also outlines the need for a pain management agreement between the practitioner and the patient.
Contention
Discussions surrounding A3630 may involve points of contention regarding the balance between patient care and regulation. Advocates of the bill argue that the stricter measures are critical for addressing the opioid crisis and preventing addiction, while critics may express concerns about access to pain management treatments for patients in need. The requirements for ongoing evaluations and monitoring could be perceived as cumbersome by some healthcare providers, raising the question of how to maintain quality care without imposing unnecessary barriers.
Permits patients to indicate that they should not be prescribed opiates and certain other controlled substances in prescription monitoring program information.
Permits patients to indicate that they should not be prescribed opiates and certain other controlled substances in prescription monitoring program information.
Permits patients to indicate that they should not be prescribed opiates and certain other controlled substances in prescription monitoring program information.
Requires health care practitioners prescribing opioid medications to limit amount of prescribed medication to seven day supply, except in certain circumstances.