This bill amends the Public Health Code by adding new sections that establish guidelines for the handling of unused facility-provided drugs, specifically for ophthalmic surgical procedures and medical care. Under the new Section 17773, hospitals and freestanding surgical outpatient facilities are required to offer any unused portion of a drug dispensed for an ophthalmic procedure to the patient upon discharge, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include that the drug was ordered and administered during the patient's inpatient care and that the unused portion is necessary for the patient's continued treatment. Additionally, if a pharmacist dispenses the drug, they must ensure it is properly labeled, and the prescriber must counsel the patient on its use.

The bill also mandates compliance with these provisions by both freestanding surgical outpatient facilities and hospitals, as outlined in Sections 20817 and 21539. The definition of a "facility-provided drug" is specified to include only eye drops or ointments that are not compounded pharmaceuticals. This legislation aims to enhance patient care by ensuring that patients have access to necessary medications after their procedures while also establishing clear responsibilities for healthcare providers.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.1101, 333.25211
As Passed by the House: 333.1101, 333.25211