Oklahoma Senate Bill SB295

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/9/23

Caption

Controlled dangerous substances; requiring Oklahoma State Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control to establish certain procedures relating to central repository. Effective date.

Impact

The bill mandates more rigorous protocols for healthcare providers, requiring them to consult the central repository before prescribing or refilling certain controlled substances after specific time frames. This establishes a layer of accountability and is designed to prevent unlawful prescription practices among medical professionals. Additionally, the bill ensures that registrants, such as physicians and pharmacists, are protected from liability regarding claims arising from their access or lack of access to the repository's information, which aims to encourage adherence to the protocol.

Summary

Senate Bill 295 focuses on controlled dangerous substances within the state of Oklahoma. This legislation amends existing laws to enhance the state's central repository for prescription monitoring, placing the Oklahoma State Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control in charge of establishing specific procedures for managing and accessing data related to controlled substances. The intent is to strengthen oversight and accountability for medical practitioners prescribing opioid medications and other controlled substances, which are increasingly subject to misuse and abuse.

Contention

While proponents of SB295 argue that it will help reduce the risks associated with prescription drug abuse and improve patient safety, critics may raise concerns about the extent of surveillance and data access required from medical practitioners. Moreover, the confidentiality provisions ensure that information collected is not subject to public disclosure, which raises questions about transparency and patient rights in accessing their own health information. Balancing the need for effective drug monitoring while protecting individual rights and preserving the doctor-patient relationship may be points of contention as the bill progresses.