This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 1814, relates to healthcare policy and the use of nonopioid directives. The key provisions of the bill are:

1. Definition of Nonopioid Directive – The bill introduces a nonopioid directive, a written document that instructs healthcare professionals not to administer, prescribe, or offer opioids to a patient.

2. Who Can Execute a Nonopioid Directive – A patient with the capacity to make decisions or a health care agent (acting on behalf of the patient) may create a nonopioid directive.

3. Recording in Health Records – Healthcare providers must document a patient’s nonopioid directive in their health record and update any revocations of such a directive.

4. Revocation – A patient can revoke the directive at any time, in any manner that communicates their intent. A healthcare agent may also revoke the directive on behalf of the patient through a written statement.

5. Exceptions – A prescriber may administer an opioid despite a nonopioid directive if:

   • The patient is in a hospital or facing an emergency medical situation outside a hospital.
   • The prescriber determines that opioid use is medically necessary.
   • If this occurs, the patient must be provided with information on substance use disorder services.

6. Immunity from Liability – Healthcare professionals, healthcare facilities, their employees, and emergency medical service (EMS) providers are protected from legal liability or professional disciplinary action for failing to administer opioids according to a valid nonopioid directive, as long as they act reasonably and in good faith.

7. Directive Form Development – The Minnesota Commissioner of Health is required to create and publish a standardized nonopioid directive form on the Minnesota Department of Health’s website. This form will include information on how to execute, revoke, and implement the directive.

Purpose of the Bill:

The bill aims to empower patients in making informed decisions regarding opioid use, help prevent opioid addiction, and provide legal protections for healthcare providers complying with such directives.

Would you like a more detailed breakdown of any section?