SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   SHB 1003

                            AS OF FEBRUARY 19, 1992

Brief Description:  Requiring practitioners to provide information on prescription drugs.

SPONSORS:House Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Representatives O'Brien, Dellwo, Wineberry and Brough).

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG‑TERM CARE

Staff:  Martin Lovinger (786-7443)

Hearing Dates:March 27, 1991; March 28, 1991; February 24, 1992

BACKGROUND:

A person who is in need of prescribed medication may not be aware of the side effects of the medication.  Currently, Board of Pharmacy rules require pharmacists to provide patients information regarding each new prescription if there are hazards associated with excessive or continued use of the drug.

SUMMARY:

The Legislature finds that legend drugs may have adverse side effects.  The Legislature also finds that patients need information from their health care provider and/or pharmacist in order to minimize or eliminate any adverse or undesirable drug interactions.

A pharmacist or other health care practitioner who dispenses drugs to a patient is required to inform the patient of any information necessary to assure the proper utilization of the medication.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  available