H.R. 4365, the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act of 2016, introduced by Rep. Hudson (NC), has passed the U.S. House of Representatives! The Senate companion,
S. 2932, introduced by Sen. Cassidy (LA) and Sen. Bennet (CO), moves to the full Senate for consideration.
On behalf of our patients, we ask all EMS practitioners to contact your Senators and ask for their support of this vital legislation, which:
- Allows EMS agencies, professionals and medical directors to fulfill their mission to save lives and alleviate pain while also enabling the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) appropriate oversight to prevent drug diversion.
- Explicitly permits medical directors to issue standing orders to enable EMS professionals to administer life-saving controlled substances to patients with emergency medical conditions.
- Clarifies and codifies who is authorized to provide verbal orders for controlled substances.
- Provides the option for a single EMS agency registration as well as guidance and clarification regarding receipt, movement and storage of controlled substances for the EMS agency.
- Provides the EMS community with a clear set of rules and DEA with auditable records and the necessary authority to prevent drug diversion.
- Allows EMS professionals to continue serving our vulnerable emergency medical patients and providing the best possible care to those who need immediate life-saving and pain medications.
ASK YOUR SENATORS TO SUPPORT S. 2932