Optometric Glaucoma Specialists licensed in Texas will be required to access the Prescription Monitoring Program database when prescribing controlled substances, beginning on September 1, 2019. The Texas Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) collects prescription data on all Schedule II through V controlled substances dispensed by a pharmacy in Texas and to a Texas resident from a pharmacy located in another state.
Even though the new requirements are not effective until later this year, the Texas Optometry Board is encouraging optometric glaucoma specialists to register with the PMP now.
New laws on prescribing Schedule III, IV or V drugs are designed to combat the misuse of opioids. The Texas State Board of Pharmacy operates the PMP and it will regularly send the Optometry Board information on optometrists who are suspected of prescribing an unusually high number of opioids.
Moreover, the new law requires the Optometry Board to review information in the PMP. The Optometry Board has the authority to discipline optometric glaucoma specialists who have allegedly engaged in potentially harmful prescribing practices. If your prescription patterns are under investigation by your licensing board, we strongly urge you to consult with an experienced medical license defense attorney immediately.
Optometric Glaucoma Specialists Required to Use Prescription Monitoring Program
As of September 1, 2019, optometric glaucoma specialists who prescribe a Schedule III, IV or V drugs for pain relief must:
- First check with the Prescription Monitoring Program for any prescription data and history related to the patient.
- Determine whether the planned prescribing would constitute a potentially harmful prescribing pattern or practice. This determination is to be based on the information in the Prescription Monitoring Program, as well as:
- the nature and intensity of the presenting pain;
- current and past treatments for the presenting pain;
- Underlying or coexisting diseases and conditions;
- any history and potential for substance abuse; and
- the presence of one or more recognized medical indications for the use of a scheduled drug.
Optometric glaucoma specialists who fail to comply with the PMP requirement may be subject to disciplinary action by the Texas Optometry Board.
Hire an Experienced Medical License Defense Attorney
If you have been notified of a complaint filed against you with the Texas Optometry Board, BERTOLINO LLP can help. We are experienced Optometry Board license defense attorneys and we know how to navigate the Board’s complaint process. We are prepared to represent you at any legal hearing or proceeding regarding your professional license.
Our Firm believes that immediately consulting an experienced license defense attorney to review allegations of misconduct helps ensure the most favorable outcome in your case. Our results speak for themselves.
BERTOLINO LLP represents licensed professionals across the entire State of Texas. If you are facing disciplinary action from a professional licensing board, contact us today or call (512) 476-5757 and schedule a case evaluation.
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