- The prescriber has completed at least eight hours of training relating to opiates and addiction approved by the appropriate licensing board;
- The prescriber uses an electronic medical record system with direct access to the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System (OARRS);
- The prescriber completes at least two hours of continuing education related to prescribing opioids that has been approved by the appropriate licensing board; and
- In the case of dentists, the dentist is able to refer patients to treatment for opioid dependence or addiction. In the case of physicians, the physician is able to treat opioid dependence or addiction.
Physicians and dentists that comply with all four requirements indicated above may personally furnish or prescribe up to a seven-day supply of opioid analgesics.
For physicians that treat chronic pain, they must also comply with all four requirements indicated above and personally furnish or prescribe opioid analgesics in a dosage greater than 50 milligrams, however, there is no limit on the number of days’ supply.
The bill also requires that naltrexone be reported to OARRS by prescribers and pharmacists as well as the morphine equivalent daily dose of a drug furnished or prescribed that must be reported to OARRS.
The Ohio Academy of Family Physicians has requested a meeting with Rep. Edwards to discuss our serious concerns with the legislation as proposed.
On March 29, a companion bill, Senate Bill 119, was introduced in the Ohio Senate by Senator Bob Hackett (R-London, OH).