Bill > S2786

This bill amends Chapter 94C of the General Laws to require health care practitioners to discuss non-opioid alternatives with patients before prescribing opioid medications contained in Schedule II. The bill mandates that practitioners consult with the patient, or their designee, representative, or guardian, about the quantity of the opioid prescription and the patient's option to fill it in a lesser quantity. Practitioners must also inform the patient of the risks associated with the prescribed opioid and discuss appropriate non-opioid treatment alternatives, including medications, therapies, and complementary and integrative treatments. The bill requires the Department of Public Health to develop and publish educational information on the use of non-opioid alternatives for acute and chronic pain treatment. Certain exceptions are provided, such as for patients receiving care in a hospital or surgical setting, hospice services, or treatment for substance use disorder.

Health and Social Services

Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery (J)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S2786