H.R. 4837: Written Informed Consent Act

The bill known as the "Written Informed Consent Act" aims to expand the requirements for informed consent in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Specifically, it mandates that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs update existing guidelines to include additional types of medications that require informed consent from patients before they are prescribed.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• The bill requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to revise VHA Directive 1005, which currently applies to long-term opioid therapy for pain.
• The update will expand informed consent requirements to five additional categories of medications:
• Antipsychotics: Medications used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
• Stimulants: Typically prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and certain sleep disorders.
• Antidepressants: Medications used to treat depressive disorders and some anxiety conditions.
• Anxiolytics: Drugs that help reduce anxiety.
• Narcotics: A class of drugs also known as opioids, often prescribed for pain management.

By expanding the directive to cover these additional medication types, the bill intends to ensure that veterans are fully informed about the potential risks and benefits of these treatments and can make more informed decisions regarding their healthcare.

Implementation

The implementation of this directive will involve updating the procedures followed by healthcare providers in the Veterans Affairs system to ensure that patients receive comprehensive information about these medications. This includes ensuring that consent is obtained properly before prescribing these drugs.

Impact on Healthcare Providers

This bill could necessitate additional training and resources for healthcare providers within the Veterans Affairs system to comply with the new informed consent requirements, ensuring they adequately communicate the necessary information to patients.

Objectives

The primary goal of the bill is to enhance patient autonomy and informed decision-making for veterans regarding their treatment options, particularly concerning medications that can have significant side effects or addiction potential.

Relevant Companies

None found.