Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Health Care Committee

HB 1469

Brief Description:  Dispensing controlled substance orders and prescriptions.

Sponsors:  Representatives Campbell and Cody.

Brief Summary of Bill

$A Schedule II controlled substance may be dispensed to a patient in long-term care or hospice facility by a facsimile copy of a prescription sent by a prescribing practitioner.

$The requirement that controlled substances may be distributed only pursuant to order forms is repealed.

Hearing Date:  2/9/01

Staff:  John Welsh (786‑7133).

Background: 

A Schedule II controlled substance is considered by law as a drug with currently accepted medical use, and with a high potential for abuse which may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.  It may not be dispensed to a patient without a written prescription.

Current federal law requires pharmacies to order Schedule II substances from manufacturers and wholesalers on triplicate order forms.  However, federal law is changing to allow orders through electronic means.

Summary of Bill: 

If permissible by federal law, a Schedule II controlled substance, including injectable substances, may be dispensed by a pharmacy with a facsimile copy of a prescription transmitted by a practitioner for a patient in a long-term care or hospice facility.  The practitioner shall note on the prescription that the patient is a long-term care or hospice patient, and shall retain a copy of the original prescription.

The requirement that controlled substances be distributed only pursuant to order forms is repealed to conform with federal law.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not Requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.