Blanket Consent to Treat Minors

Tennessee medical practices need to review their blanket consent forms giving parental consent for the treatment of a minor patient based on a recently released Tennessee Attorney General Opinion. A practice needs to be sure to include all of the services listed in Tennessee law on the list that the physician might/will perform for the minor patient in order to have a valid blanket parental consent form. The AG opinion is discussed in this article and you should also review TMA’s online Law Guide topic on Minors and Vaccine Consent or contact Legal@tnmed.org.

Indictment Reporting (controlled substance & sexual offense)

A physician must report to his/her licensing board any indictment for an offense involving the sale or dispensing of controlled substances. Once the licensing board learns of any indictment for a controlled substance crime or for a sexual offense, it must restrict certain prescription rights until the case is final. If convicted, the license must be revoked. Access our Law Guide topic, Prescriptions, to understand the details of these two laws and the possible impact on a physician.

Opioid Resource Center 

In 2018, the Tennessee General Assembly passed comprehensive legislation to address the state’s opioid abuse epidemic. TMA’s Opioid Resource Center helps members remain compliant with opioid prescription requirements in Tennessee. Our resources include a one-page Prescriber Guide, a template Informed Consent to Receive Opioid Therapy, downloadable office posters for patients and employees, and a pocket card for patients that explains the requirements of the law.