Virginia House Bill HB921

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22

Caption

Controlled substances; prescriber may establish practitioner-patient relationship.

Impact

The bill amends existing regulations surrounding the issuance of prescriptions, emphasizing the importance of a bona fide relationship but also allowing exceptions, particularly in urgent situations. For example, practitioners can prescribe certain antibiotics and antiviral agents to individuals in close contact with diagnosed patients without needing a prior established relationship if it aligns with public health recommendations. This aspect aims to improve public health outcomes by allowing quicker responses to communicable diseases.

Summary

House Bill 921 introduces significant changes to the regulation of controlled substances in Virginia. It primarily aims to allow practitioners to establish a bona fide practitioner-patient relationship, even in cases of telemedicine, thus facilitating the prescribing of Schedule II through VI controlled substances. This bill expands the definition of how such relationships can be established and allows for greater flexibility in prescription practices, especially in urgent health situations as dictated by public health guidelines.

Contention

However, the bill has faced contention concerning the implications of telemedicine. Critics raise concerns regarding patient safety, arguing that while telemedicine is expanding access to care, it may also risk undermining the thoroughness of patient evaluations typically necessitated by face-to-face interactions. Supporters contend that with adequate regulatory frameworks and training, telemedicine can provide effective, timely care that aligns with modern medical practices.