Recent Publications

Department of Health Prescribes Additional Opioid Treatment Guidelines
By letter dated February 13, 2019, the New York State Department of Health released written guidance to physicians who prescribe opioids for pain lasting longer than three (3) months. Effective April 1, 2018, legislation signed by Governor Cuomo, as part of the 2018-2019 New York State Fiscal Year Budget, has added a new section to the law pertaining to controlled substance prescriptions.

Deadline Approaching for Reporting 2018 HIPAA Breaches
Most healthcare providers are aware that they are required to take steps to secure the health information of their patients under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”). While most providers ensure that their staff use their best efforts to ensure that all patient health information (“PHI”) is protected in accordance with HIPAA, there are unfortunately some instances in which even the best precautions fail to prevent the unauthorized release of this information.

An Alternative to Prescribing Opioids . . . The New York State Medical Marijuana Program
Prior to the enactment of the Compassionate Care Act, a vast number of practitioners relied on prescription opioids to treat patients with severe pain. Now, a practitioner may certify patients to use an approved medical marijuana product (as an alternative to opioids as part of a patient’s treatment plan), under the New York State Medical Marijuana Program (“MMP”) and current emergency regulations.

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