Oklahoma Senate Bill SB336

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Controlled dangerous substances; requiring registration of pain management clinics; stating requirements for clinics; providing penalties. Effective date.

Impact

The bill stipulates numerous operational and compliance requirements for registered clinics. These include designated ownership, strict compliance with physical operation standards, infection control protocols, and requirements for data collection on patient treatment and adverse incidents. Importantly, the legislation ensures that only licensed prescribers can operate within a pain management clinic, imposing penalties for non-compliance. This framework is anticipated to enhance oversight and potentially reduce instances of drug diversion while ensuring responsible prescribing practices in Oklahoma.

Summary

Senate Bill 336 aims to regulate pain management clinics within Oklahoma by mandating their registration with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control. The bill defines key terms such as 'chronic nonmalignant pain' and establishes criteria for a facility to be categorized as a pain management clinic. The legislative intent is to impose stricter oversight on clinics that prescribe controlled substances, especially those contributing to the opioid crisis. Registration will be required for clinics that meet specific treatment thresholds concerning nonmalignant pain prescriptions, ostensibly to combat drug misuse while promoting patient safety.

Contention

Despite its intentions, SB336 has elicited debates among stakeholders regarding the balance between necessary regulation and access to pain management care. Opponents argue that heightened restrictions may inadvertently limit patient access to essential services, particularly for individuals suffering from chronic pain. They express concern that stringent requirements could overwhelm smaller clinics, ultimately driving patients toward less regulated or illegal avenues of obtaining pain relief. The bill reflects an ongoing struggle to manage the dual challenges of addressing public health concerns associated with controlled substances and ensuring that those in legitimate need receive adequate care.