Tennessee House Bill HB0665

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Refer: 2/1/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 53 and Title 63, relative to buprenorphine.

Impact

The proposed amendments would modify regulations around healthcare practices related to buprenorphine, particularly affecting how prescriptions are issued and documenting patient consent. By formalizing the requirement for signed acknowledgment, the bill seeks to enhance safeguards for patients, particularly those who may be vulnerable, such as pregnant women. The inclusion of information regarding the risks of buprenorphine use on unborn children is particularly relevant, as it addresses public health concerns surrounding neonatal abstinence syndrome, which can have significant implications on child health and development.

Summary

House Bill 0665 proposes amendments to Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the prescription of buprenorphine. It requires healthcare providers to obtain signed acknowledgment from patients before issuing an initial prescription for buprenorphine, ensuring that patients are informed of the risks associated with the medication. The bill mandates that a form detailing these risks be made available on the Department of Health's public website for distribution to patients, and it requires renewal of the acknowledgment annually. These measures aim to promote patient awareness and safety in the context of buprenorphine prescriptions.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB0665 tends to be supportive among advocates for patient safety and healthcare transparency. Proponents argue that these additional measures are necessary to ensure that patients are fully informed about the potential risks of buprenorphine, thus fostering a more responsible prescribing environment. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implications of added bureaucracy on healthcare providers, as they would need to comply with the new regulations and maintain proper documentation regarding patient consent.

Contention

While most discussions have focused on the health implications of buprenorphine prescriptions, some contention may arise about the enforcement of the new requirements and their impact on access to care. Critics might argue that these regulations could lead to delays in accessing essential treatment for individuals battling addiction, particularly if the documentation process is seen as burdensome. Thus, while the bill aims for patient safety, balancing regulations with accessibility in treatment remains a delicate issue in the ongoing discussions surrounding HB0665.