Sandoval’s controlled drug bill amended, set for another vote

A now amended bill in the Nevada Assembly would lighten the proposed workload for doctors who prescribe certain controlled substances.

Initially, Gov. Brian Sandoval’s prescription drug proposal would have required all physicians to check the state prescription monitoring database before ordering some drugs to ensure patients do not get excess medication.

The amendment, offered by Assemblywoman Robin Titus, a Wellington Republican and medical doctor, means physicians would not have to access the database for existing patients if they’re receiving the medication for seven days or less. That would be the length of time patients suffer from acute pain associated with outpatient surgery, dental work, burns and cuts.

The Assembly signed off on the amendment Thursday, and the governor’s office agreed to the compromise. The amended bill is up for another vote in the Assembly on Friday.

If approved there, Senate Bill 459 next would be sent back to the upper house of the Legislature, which approved an earlier version.