prescription opioid pain relievers has more than quadrupled
in the United States since 1999.
(4) It is imperative for people suffering from pain to
get the relief they need while minimizing the potential for
negative consequences.
(5) The human suffering caused by drug addiction,
including the effect on the loved ones of the individuals
suffering from drug addiction, has now reached epidemic
proportions in this Commonwealth.
Section 3. Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this act shall
have the meanings given to them in this section unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Abuse-deterrent opioid analgesic drug product." A brand or
generic opioid analgesic drug product approved by the United
States Food and Drug Administration as an abuse-deterrent opioid
with abuse-deterrence labeling claims indicating its abuse-
deterrent properties are expected to deter or reduce its abuse.
"Health insurance carrier." An entity that offers or issues
a health insurance plan and is subject to any of the following:
(1) The act of May 17, 1921 (P.L.682, No.284), known as
The Insurance Company Law of 1921, including section 630 and
Article XXIV of that act.
(2) The act of December 29, 1972 (P.L.1701, No.364),
known as the Health Maintenance Organization Act.
(3) 40 Pa.C.S. Ch. 61 (relating to hospital plan
corporations) or 63 (relating to professional health services
plan corporations).
"Health insurance plan." A policy, contract, certificate or
agreement offered or issued by a health insurance carrier to
20170HB0288PN0282 - 2 -
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30