SF1814

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.

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