CT HB06709

Allows terminally ill patients to access investigational drugs, biological products, or devices that have completed phase one clinical trials but lack FDA approval for general use.

Patients must exhaust approved treatment options, be unable to access nearby clinical trials within 100 miles or one week, receive physician recommendation, and provide written informed consent acknowledging risks and financial responsibility.

Manufacturers may provide investigational treatments for free or charge patients for manufacturing costs, and health insurers may deny coverage for up to six months after treatment ends.

Protects physicians from disciplinary action by the Department of Public Health or Medical Examining Board for recommending investigational treatments consistent with medical standards of care.

Eliminates private lawsuits against manufacturers, treating physicians, and other entities for harm resulting from investigational drug treatments, effective October 1, 2015.