Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement (BNE) Clarifies I-Stop Requirements

On June 6, LeadingAge NY staff met with Terry O'Leary, BNE director, to clarify the requirements for providers under the I-STOP law, which is to become effective Aug. 27, 2013.  The law requires prescibers of Schedule II, III and IV controlled substances to consult a database prior to prescribing these drugs.  The intent of the law is to promote the safe and effective use of prescription drugs and curb possible diversion and abuse of these drugs.  The concern expressed on behalf of  LeadingAge NY members was the impact of the requirement on nursing homes to continually access the database for residents, many of whom receive these drugs to control pain. 

In clarifying the new law, BNE has indicated that for facilities with an institutional license (3 or 3a) and for residents continuing to receive the drugs in the facility, the checking of the database would not be required prior to prescribing the Schedule II, III and IV drugs.  However, for residents being discharged from the facility, the checking of the database would be required.  Regulations, according to BNE, have been crafted and are expected to be issued in July. 

Contact:  Elliott Frost, efrost@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8832