Concerning The Allowance For Terminally Ill Patients To Participate In Clinical Trials Using Investigational Products.
The bill allows, but does not require, eligible patients to participate in clinical trials and use investigational drugs, biological products, and devices. The bill defines an eligible patient as a person who has:
- A terminal illness;
- Considered all other treatment options currently approved by the United States food and drug administration;
- Received a prescription or recommendation from his or her physician;
- Given written, informed consent for the use of the investigational drug, biological product, or device; and
- Documentation from his or her physician that he or she meets the definition of "eligible patient".
The bill clarifies that a health insurance carrier is not required to pay for the investigational drug, biological product, or device.
The bill prohibits any action against a physician's license for his or her recommendations regarding the use of investigational drugs, biological products, or devices.