Bill > S1040

This bill aims to give patients more control and information when receiving opiate drugs, specifically those classified as Schedule II or III narcotic substances. It allows a pharmacist to fill a prescription for a lesser quantity of the drug than what is written, if the patient requests it, but this partial fill makes the prescription invalid for any remaining amount. The pharmacist must then inform the prescribing doctor, either through an electronic health record or other communication methods, about the reduced quantity. Additionally, pharmacists will be required to inform patients presenting a new prescription for these controlled substances that they have the option to receive a smaller amount. The bill also mandates that insurance policies, hospital service plans, medical service agreements, and health maintenance contracts must adjust or reduce cost-sharing expenses (like co-pays) when a patient chooses to get a prescription filled for a reduced quantity of these narcotic drugs.