The bill, H.B. No. 5533, amends Section 157.0511(b-1) of the Occupations Code to expand the circumstances under which a physician can delegate the prescribing or ordering of Schedule II controlled substances. Specifically, it allows for such delegation not only in hospital settings and for patients with terminal illnesses receiving hospice care but also as part of a narcotic drug treatment program that has been issued a permit under Chapter 466 of the Health and Safety Code. This addition aims to enhance the treatment options available for patients in narcotic drug treatment programs.

The bill removes the previous provision that allowed delegation only in hospital facilities or for hospice care, thereby broadening the scope of practice for advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants in managing narcotic treatments. The legislation is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the Texas Legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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