Texas House Bill HB2936

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to a pilot program for donation and redistribution of certain unused prescription medications; authorizing a fee.

Impact

The implementation of this pilot program has the potential to significantly improve access to necessary medications for underserved populations by facilitating the reuse of medications that would otherwise go unused. By allowing health centers to dispense these donated medications, the bill aims to address gaps in healthcare access, particularly for low-income individuals who may struggle to afford prescription drugs. The program is to be conducted in specified counties, providing a controlled setting for its evaluation before any potential expansion across the state.

Summary

House Bill 2936 introduces a pilot program aimed at the donation and redistribution of certain unused prescription medications in Texas. The bill outlines the establishment of a structured system whereby nursing homes can donate oral prescription drugs, which must be in their original, tamper-evident packaging and have a shelf life of more than 60 days at the time of donation. Health centers and charitable clinics that participate in this program are authorized to accept these donations, which can then be dispensed or administered to patients upon the determination of a licensed pharmacist regarding the drugs' integrity.

Contention

While proponents argue that HB 2936 represents a progressive step toward enhancing healthcare accessibility and reducing waste, there are points of contention to consider. Concerns regarding patient safety, prescription integrity, and ethical standards in handling donated medications are likely to arise. The establishment of a database for tracking donated drugs and subsequent distribution requires careful oversight, as any lapses could lead to public health risks. Additionally, the limitations on the types of drugs that can be donated may raise questions about whether the program can adequately meet diverse patient needs.