24:21-15.1 Prescriber to discuss risks of dependence on certain drugs with certain patients.
1. a. A health care professional authorized to issue prescriptions shall, prior to issuing a prescription for an opioid drug which is a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance, discuss with a patient who is under 18 years of age and is an emancipated minor, or with the patient's parent or guardian if the patient is under 18 years of age and is not an emancipated minor, the risks of developing a physical or psychological dependence on the opioid drug and, if the prescriber deems it appropriate, such alternative treatments as may be available.
b. A prescriber who engages in a discussion required pursuant to subsection a. of this section shall include a note in the patient's medical record indicating that the discussion took place.
c. The discussion required under subsection a. of this section shall not be required prior to issuing a prescription to any patient who is currently receiving hospice care from a licensed hospice.
L.2017, c.8, s.1.