Florida Pill Mill Bill Would Ease Opioid Restrictions
Some lawmakers say a law cracking down on misuse of the drugs has been too successful, leading some to go without the prescription drugs that would ease their pain. Also in Florida, a needle exchange proposal gains traction.
Health News Florida:
Pain Patients Could Get Prescription Relief Under Senate Access Plan
Some Florida lawmakers say the state’s pill mill crackdown has gone too far. Florida used to be known as a pill mill capital but the state cracked down on unscrupulous clinics, leaving legitimate patients to struggle with getting prescriptions filled. Sen. Aaron Bean, R-Jacksonville, has a bill that would lift some restrictions on drugs like oxycodone. He says the state's pill mill crackdown has been a success, but perhaps its been too successful. (Hatter, 10/21)
Health News Florida:
Needle Exchange Bill Gains Ground In Florida House
A Broward County lawmaker’s plans for a needle exchange program are gaining traction. The House Health Quality Subcommittee approved Representative Katie Edwards’ plan Tuesday for a pilot program at the University of Miami. By exchanging sterile needles for used ones, the program aims to slow the spread of blood-borne illnesses. Edwards says transmission prevention should be a matter of public health, and not only a matter of public safety. (Payne, 10/21)
