D.C. Code § 48-853.07: Criteria for indicators of misuse; Director’s authority to disclose information; intervention.

(a)

The Director may establish through rulemaking:

(1)

Criteria for indicators of misuse or abuse of covered substances;

(2)

A method for analysis of data collected by the Program using the criteria for indicators of misuse or abuse of covered substances;

(3)

Criteria for indications of a possible violation of law or a possible breach of professional standards by a prescriber or dispenser; and

(4)

A method for analysis of data collected by the Program using the criteria for indications of a possible violation of law or a possible breach of professional standards by a prescriber or dispenser.

(b)

(1)

Upon the development of the criteria and data analysis, the Program may review prescription monitoring program data for indications of:

(A)

Possible misuse or abuse of a covered prescription drug; and

(B)

A possible violation of law or possible breach of professional standards by a prescriber or a dispenser.

(2)

If the Program's review of prescription monitoring data indicates a possible violation of paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Director may, in addition to any discretionary disclosure of information pursuant to this chapter:

(A)

Report the possible misuse or abuse by a patient to the specific prescriber or dispenser of the covered prescription drug for the purpose of intervention to prevent such misuse or abuse;

(B)

Notify the prescriber or dispenser of the possible violation of law or possible breach of professional standards; and

(C)

Provide education to the prescriber or dispenser.