I will be re-introducing legislation that prohibits the use of telemedicine services or technologies in the administration of any medications that are required to be delivered or administered in certain healthcare settings, according to the United States Food and Drug Administration Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS). This bill was introduced last year as Senate Bill 710 and was cosponsored by Senators J. Ward, and Hutchinson.

The Food and Drug Administration Act of 2007 gave the FDA the authority to require a REMS for certain medications with serious safety concerns to help ensure the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks. This drug safety program was designed to reinforce behaviors and actions that support the safe use of such medications. While all medications have labeling that informs health care providers about medication risks, only a few require a REMS. Most REMS include a communication component about the specific safety risk or risks that the REMS is intended to mitigate, while others include additional requirements such as clinical activities or interventions.

My legislation is intended to supplement the safety requirements imposed by the FDA by providing an additional layer of protection for individuals who are prescribed these drugs. While the use of telemedicine is an invaluable tool to expand access to healthcare, it should not be utilized under certain circumstances that could potentially compromise or put an individual’s health at risk.

I hope you will join me in co-sponsoring this important piece of legislation.