Florida Opioid Prescribing Legislation Overview (HB 21)

Background

Signed by Governor Scott on March 19, 2018, the legislation requires applicable health care regulatory boards to adopt rules establishing guidelines for prescribing controlled substances for the treatment of acute pain.  The rules, still under consideration by the boards, will include evaluation of the patient, creation, and maintenance of a treatment plan, obtaining informed consent and agreement for treatment, periodic review of the treatment plan, consultation, medical record review, and compliance with controlled substances laws and regulations.  Failure to follow the boards’ guidelines will result in disciplinary action.   The law will become effective July 1, 2018.

Full HB 21 Overview