Section 18-214.1 - Expedited Partner Therapy Pilot Program. - Maryland Statutes

§ 18-214.1. Expedited Partner Therapy Pilot Program [Section subject to abrogation].
 

(a)  Definitions.-  

(1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated. 

(2) "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Health of the Baltimore City Health Department. 

(3) "Program" means the Expedited Partner Therapy Pilot Program. 

(b)  Established.- There is an Expedited Partner Therapy Pilot Program in the Baltimore City Health Department. 

(c)  Purpose.- The purpose of the Program is to provide antibiotic therapy to the partner of a patient diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection identified in subsection (d) of this section in order to contain the infection and stop the further spread of it. 

(d)  In general.- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in a public health clinic established by the Commissioner in Baltimore City, the following health care providers may dispense or otherwise provide antibiotic therapy to any sexual partner of a patient diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea without making a personal physical assessment of the patient's partner: 

(1) A physician licensed under Title 14 of the Health Occupations Article; 

(2) A certified nurse practitioner in accordance with § 8-508 of the Health Occupations Article; and 

(3) An authorized physician assistant in accordance with § 15-302.2 of the Health Occupations Article. 

(e)  Regulations.- The Secretary shall adopt regulations to implement the requirements of this section. 

(f)  Reports.- On or before December 31, 2007, and each year thereafter, the Baltimore City Health Department shall report to the Governor and, subject to § 2-1246 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly, on the operation and performance of the Expedited Partner Therapy Pilot Program. 
 

[2007, ch. 146.]