Opioids; require health care professionals to discuss opioid use prior to prescription of Schedule II controlled substances, exceptions provided

HB 364 requires doctors and nurse practitioners to discuss specific opioid risks with patients before prescribing an initial and third prescription for Schedule II opioids or opioid pain medications. The discussion must cover addiction risks, alternatives to opioids, dangers of mixing opioids with alcohol or sedatives, and dependence risks, with providers documenting this in medical records. It does not apply to cancer patients in active treatment, hospice/palliative care patients, long-term care residents, or those prescribed opioids for substance abuse treatment. The bill affects healthcare providers and patients receiving opioid prescriptions for acute or chronic pain, aiming to improve informed decision-making.