Texas House Bill HB2743

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of electronic prescriptions for the prescribing or dispensing of Schedule II controlled substances.

Impact

The implementation of HB2743 is expected to streamline the prescription process for controlled substances, potentially enhancing patient safety by reducing errors associated with handwritten prescriptions. By pushing for a transition to electronic records, the bill aims to leverage technology for better compliance and monitoring of prescribed medications, thus helping mitigate issues such as prescription fraud and abuse. The effective date of the law is specified for future prescriptions issued after January 1, 2018, meaning existing prescriptions will not be affected by this legislative change.

Summary

House Bill 2743 addresses the use of electronic prescriptions specifically for the prescribing or dispensing of Schedule II controlled substances. The central provision of the bill mandates that prescribers and pharmacists utilize an electronic prescription record, eliminating the use of written prescriptions in most cases. Exceptions exist for veterinarians, prescriptions needed outside the state, and scenarios where electronic prescribing is unavailable due to technological failures. A waiver may also be obtained under circumstances of economic hardship or for other exceptional reasons, albeit for no longer than one year.

Contention

While the shift to electronic prescriptions is largely seen as a progressive step, it also raises concerns related to access and economic impact on smaller practices, particularly those that may struggle to afford the necessary technological infrastructure. Critics may voice apprehensions regarding the practical implications for prescribers who face technological limitations or cannot implement electronic systems swiftly. Additionally, the provision for waivers, while a nod to these concerns, may not fully alleviate the burden on practitioners who regularly deal with patients requiring Schedule II medications.