AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33; Title 53; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to the use of buprenorphine products.
Impact
The bill directly impacts existing statutes concerning the treatment of opioid use disorder, focusing on restricting the prescription of buprenorphine products to only qualified healthcare professionals. This legislative change is designed to enhance the quality of care for those affected by opioid addiction and ensure that treatment protocols adhere to best practices in the field. By centralizing prescription authority, the state aims to mitigate risks associated with improper prescribing and over-prescription, while also ensuring that treatment facilities meet specific compliance standards.
Summary
Senate Bill 2297 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated with respect to the prescription of buprenorphine products specifically for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Under this bill, only licensed physicians are authorized to prescribe buprenorphine for medically approved uses in recovery or medication-assisted treatment, emphasizing the need for stringent regulations surrounding the prescription of this medication. The bill outlines clear guidelines and conditions under which other healthcare providers may prescribe these products, ensuring that they are only permitted to do so under strict supervision and in specific healthcare settings designed to treat opioid addiction.
Sentiment
General sentiment towards SB 2297 appears to be supportive among many stakeholders, particularly those advocating for stricter measures to combat the opioid crisis in Tennessee. Proponents argue that these regulations are necessary for ensuring patient safety and effective treatment outcomes. However, there are concerns from some healthcare providers and advocacy groups about the limitations this bill places on their ability to offer comprehensive care to patients struggling with addiction. This division reflects a broader debate on how best to balance regulatory oversight with patient access to needed healthcare services.
Contention
Notable points of contention within the discussions around SB 2297 include the potential limitations it imposes on non-physician healthcare providers, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who may be highly qualified to manage patients undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder. Critics express concerns that overly restrictive policies could inhibit access to necessary care for patients, especially in underserved areas where physician access is limited. The bill's approach may raise questions about the adequacy of existing healthcare infrastructures to support a transition to stricter prescription standards without compromising patient care.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 33; Title 49; Title 53; Title 55; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to healthcare professions.
Urges U.S. President, Congress, and Department of Health and Human Services to ease patient limits applicable to private physicians prescribing buprenorphine as part of medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders.