SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5815
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 12, 2015
Title: An act relating to prescriptive authority of naturopaths.
Brief Description: Concerning prescriptive authority of naturopaths.
Sponsors: Senators Becker, Keiser, Bailey, Brown, Kohl-Welles, Frockt and Chase.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Health Care:
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE |
Staff: Evan Klein (786-7483)
Background: Naturopathic medicine is the practice by naturopaths of the art and science of the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disorders of the body. Naturopaths may use stimulation or support, or both, of the natural processes of the human body. The practice of naturopathic medicine includes manual manipulation, the prescription, administration, dispensing, and use, except for the treatment of malignancies, of nutrition and food science, physical modalities, minor office procedures, homeopathy, naturopathic medicines, hygiene and immunization, contraceptive devices, common diagnostic procedures, and suggestion.
Naturopathic medicine includes vitamins, minerals, botanical medicines, homeopathic medicines, and hormones. The only controlled schedule II through V substances that are considered naturopathic medicine are codeine and testosterone.
Summary of Bill: Naturopaths are authorized to prescribe and administer, as necessary in the practice of naturopathy:
legend drugs;
hydrocodone products contained in schedule II of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act; and
controlled substances contained in schedule III through V of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.
A naturopath may prescribe a maximum dosage of 120 milligrams morphine-equivalent dose per day.
A naturopath who is treating a patient for a single trauma, episode, or condition may issue a prescription for a controlled substance for a period of up to seven days.
A naturopath who prescribes controlled substances must register in the prescription monitoring program database.
The Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission and the Board of Naturopathy may adopt rules to establish education and training requirements related to legend drugs and controlled substances.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 11, 2015.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.