HB 2791 Summary

• Amends 59 O.S. 2011, Section 503 to allow State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision staff to conduct investigations and file formal complaints without waiting for a sworn complaint to be filed first.

• Modifies 59 O.S. 2011, Section 504 to grant the Board secretary or designee authority to issue subpoenas during investigations for witnesses, premises inspections, and production of pharmacy, medical, and hospital records with the same force as district court orders.

• Establishes that patient confidentiality shall be maintained by the Board and that subpoena compliance shall not be considered a violation of state or federal confidentiality laws.

• Amends 59 O.S. 2011, Section 512 to authorize Board investigators to investigate and inspect records to determine whether disciplinary action for unprofessional misconduct is warranted.

• Effective date: November 1, 2014.