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Committee favors bill requiring opioid prescribers to discuss risks and alternatives with patients
Summary
The committee voted to forward Bill No. 36-0021, which would require practitioners to document that they discussed why an opioid is prescribed, available alternatives and risks of dependence with patients. The measure includes exemptions for hospice, cancer care and patients already in substance-use treatment.
The Committee on Rules and Judiciary on May 8 voted to favorably report Bill No. 36-0021, which would amend Title 19 of the Virgin Islands Code to require practitioners to discuss specific information with patients when prescribing opioid medications.
Senator Angel L. Bocas Jr., speaking for the bill sponsor, said the measure seeks to ensure informed consent by requiring clinicians to explain why an opioid is necessary, available alternatives and the risks of developing dependence. The bill exempts patients receiving hospice or cancer care and those already in substance-use treatment.
Committee members noted the bill was vetted in the Committee on Health, Hospitals and Human Services on April 22 and urged that implementation include clear guidance for practitioners. Senator Milton E. Potter suggested the Board of Medical Examiners issue formal guidance so clinicians apply a uniform approach. Senator Alma Francis Heiliger cautioned that federal rules already impose strict controls on opioid prescribing and that pharmacists and prescribers are required to provide risk information; she said codifying the requirement locally could duplicate existing federal/regulatory obligations but did not oppose forwarding the measure.
The committee moved to favorably report the bill; the clerk recorded the committee vote and the bill will be forwarded to the full legislature for further consideration.
