Bill > HB1493

This bill addresses prescription management for children of parents with shared custody or visitation schedules by requiring healthcare providers to issue two separate prescriptions when a parent presents a court-approved custody or visitation document. Specifically, the healthcare provider must create two prescriptions for each medication prescribed to a child, with each prescription written for an amount proportional to the time the respective parent spends with the child according to the court schedule. For example, if one parent has the child 60% of the time and the other parent 40% of the time, the prescriptions would be divided accordingly. The bill also mandates that healthcare providers authorized to dispense prescription drugs must fill these proportional prescriptions when presented with the court document. This legislation aims to ensure that both parents have equal access to necessary medications for their child during their respective custody periods, potentially reducing potential conflicts and ensuring continuous medical care. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving healthcare providers and systems time to prepare for implementation.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1493?ys=2025RS