HB2407 Summary

• Creates the Internet Prescribing Prohibition Act that prohibits licensed prescribers from knowingly prescribing medications via Internet, World Wide Web, telephone, facsimile, or other electronic means unless the patient has been physically examined or received a documented evaluation including health history and physical exam.

• Requires prescribers and patients to discuss treatment options and risks/benefits before prescribing, and prescribers must maintain patient medical records; carves out exceptions for emergency situations, consultations with supervising professionals, on-call coverage, hospital admissions, and existing physician-patient relationships.

• Establishes criminal penalties of $1,000 minimum for first violations and $2,000 minimum for subsequent violations; violators must be reported to the Division of Professional Regulation for licensing board review.

• Amends seven healthcare professional licensing acts (dental, medical, nursing, optometric, physician assistant, podiatric, and veterinary) to make violations of the Internet Prescribing Prohibition Act grounds for disciplinary action including license suspension or revocation.