An Act relative to patient opioid notification

This bill requires doctors in Massachusetts to discuss specific risks and alternatives with patients before prescribing initial or third opioid pain medications. The law mandates that providers explain the dangers of addiction, overdose, and mixing opioids with other depressants, while also outlining why the prescription is necessary and what other treatments might be available. Practitioners must document these conversations in the patient's medical record, though the requirement does not apply to cancer patients, hospice residents, long-term care facility residents, or those being treated for substance abuse.