SC H4165

Requires healthcare practitioners to inform patients about non-opioid pain treatment alternatives before prescribing Schedule II opioids, including options like acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, physical therapy, and non-opioid medications

Directs the Department of Public Health to create and publish an educational pamphlet on non-opioid pain management alternatives on its website by September 30, 2025

Mandates practitioners document non-opioid alternatives considered in patient records and discuss advantages/disadvantages based on patient history and risk of substance abuse

Exempts opioids prescribed for medical emergencies, acute trauma, hospitalized patients, cancer, palliative/end-of-life care, sickle cell disease, and perioperative care from these requirements

Requires the Department of Public Health to work with the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund to explore using opioid abatement funding for education and healthcare services related to non-opioid alternatives