Bill > H2217

This bill amends Massachusetts law to expand access to opioid antagonists (drugs approved by the FDA that can reverse opioid overdoses), primarily by establishing a statewide standing order that allows licensed pharmacists to dispense these drugs without individual patient prescriptions. The bill provides legal protections for pharmacists, physicians, and individuals who dispense or administer opioid antagonists in good faith, ensuring they cannot be criminally or civilly prosecuted or face professional disciplinary action. Pharmacists are required to annually report the number of doses dispensed (without identifying individual patients) and must attempt to bill insurance for the medication when possible. The bill also clarifies that individuals can receive, possess, and administer opioid antagonists to someone experiencing an overdose without legal risk. Additionally, the law mandates that the state's health departments develop regulations to implement these provisions, with the goal of increasing the availability and use of life-saving overdose reversal medications.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2217