§ 20-7-707. Prescriber requirements

(a) For a patient with chronic nonmalignant pain, a prescriber, at a minimum and in addition to any additional requirements of the appropriate licensing board, shall:

1. (1) Check the prescriptive history of the patient on the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program at least every six (6) months; and

2. (2) Have a signed pain contract with the patient that states, at a minimum, the expectations of the prescriber for the behavior of the patient which may include:

   1. (A) A requirement for random urine drug screenings to help ensure that the patient is abiding by the requirements of the contract; and

   2. (B) A requirement for random pill counts to ensure compliance with the prescription.

(b) The requirements of this section shall not apply to a patient:

1. (1) Whose pain medications are being prescribed for a malignant condition;

2. (2) With a terminal condition;

3. (3) Who is a resident of a licensed healthcare facility;

4. (4) Who is enrolled in a hospice program; or

5. (5) Who is in an inpatient or outpatient palliative care program.