10/29/2015

Ohio ACEP Meets With Bill Sponsor on Medicaid Prior Authorization Proposal

Legislation requiring prior authorization for controlled substances in the ED at odds with state and federal law

In August, Ohio ACEP informed our members about House Bill 250, introduced by Reps. Denise Driehaus (D – Cincinnati) and Robert Sprague (R – Findlay). The legislation would require Medicaid patients to obtain prior authorization before being prescribed a drug containing an opioid—even in emergency departments.

The bill, while well-intentioned, raises some serious concerns. First, requiring prior authorization for an opioid in an emergency care setting would delay timely, appropriate treatment of pain.

In addition to concerns over prompt patient care, the legislation is at also odds with state and federal laws which prohibit prior authorization in the emergency department.

Ohio ACEP met with Rep. Robert Sprague to outline our concerns about the legislation. Rep. Sprague was receptive to our input and appreciated the information we shared with him.

Ohio ACEP has worked closely with the state to confront its prescription drug abuse crisis. But, when appropriate, we have also pushed back on proposals which would substitute the clinical judgment of physicians in favor of arbitrary prescribing requirements. We look forward to continuing our collaborative relationship with the state to prevent abuse and diversion of potentially dangerous prescription drugs.

HB 250 is being considered by the House Insurance Committee. Stay tuned for updates!