Sprague Sponsored Bill Offers Help To Doctors Dealing With Addiction

6/22/17 – 5:23 A.M.

A bill sponsored by State Representative Robert Sprague aims to help doctors dealing with substance abuse issues. The Ohio House passed the “One-Bite” bill Wednesday. The legislation gives doctors access to a strict treatment regimen without immediately receiving severe disciplinary action and losing their license. The rule would only apply to physicians who haven’t had previous substance abuse issues.

Anyone taking part in the program would have to suspend their practice until the treatment provider determines that the individual is no longer impaired.

Sprague says doctors are often afraid to get treatment for fear of ruining their livelihood.

The bill is now headed to the Ohio Senate for debate.