Requires veterinarians to provide consultations to animal owners when a drug is prescribed and dispensed for that annual patient.
Impact
The introduction of S0648 is expected to positively impact state laws governing veterinary practices, mandating a standardized approach to drug education for pet owners. By requiring consultations, the bill emphasizes the responsibility of veterinarians in safeguarding animal welfare and fostering better understanding among clients about their pets' medical treatments. Such changes could lead to improved health outcomes for animals, as informed owners are more likely to follow prescribed guidelines effectively.
Summary
Bill S0648 establishes a requirement for veterinarians in Rhode Island to provide consultations to pet owners whenever a drug is prescribed or dispensed for their animals. This includes delivering detailed information regarding the drug's name, description, administration route, dosage, potential side effects, and storage instructions. This initiative aims to enhance communication between veterinarians and pet owners, ensuring that owners are well-informed about the medications their animals receive.
Contention
While proponents of the bill argue that providing drug consultations is essential for responsible veterinary care, there could be concerns regarding the implementation and potential burden on veterinarians, particularly in high-volume practices. Some may argue that additional requirements could lead to increased administrative work and costs. Nonetheless, the anticipated benefits of enhanced animal healthcare and owner understanding may outweigh these concerns.
Requires the department of health to amend its rules and regulations that allow for DEA-registered pharmacies to transfer electronic prescriptions at a patient's request.
Requires the department of health to amend its rules and regulations that allow for DEA-registered pharmacies to transfer electronic prescriptions at a patient's request (21 CFR Part 1306
Establishes the process to provide a legal mechanism whereby a terminally ill patient may choose to end their life using medications prescribed by a physician.
Establishes the process to provide a legal mechanism whereby a terminally ill patient may choose to end their life using medications prescribed by a physician.
Directs the state board of pharmacy to annually identify up to fifteen prescription drugs with increased costs and provide the list to the attorney general to obtain reasons for the cost increases.
Adds a new section which sets forth conditions for pharmacists to prescribe tobacco cessation/drug therapies, programs approved by the state board of pharmacy. The cessation therapies would be covered by all health insurance carriers on or after 1/1/25.
Adds a new section which sets forth conditions for pharmacists to prescribe tobacco cessation/drug therapies, programs approved by the state board of pharmacy. The cessation therapies would be covered by all health insurance carriers on or after 1/1/25.