At a glance
EPT is permissible in Georgia as of September 21, 2022.
Findings
[+] supports the use of EPT
[-] negatively affects the use of EPT
I. Statutes/regs on health care providers’ authority to prescribe for STDs to a patient’s partner(s) w/out prior evaluation
[+] “A licensed practitioner who diagnoses a patient to be infected with chlamydia or gonorrhea may utilize expedited partner therapy in accordance with any rules and regulations established by the department for the management of the health of such patient’s sexual partner or partners.” Ga. Code Ann., § 31-17-7.1 “
[+] ‘Expedited partner therapy’ or EPT means the practice of prescribing, ordering, or dispensing antibiotic drugs to the sexual partner or partners of an index patient diagnosed with chlamydia and/or gonorrhea, without a physical examination of such partner or partners. Ga Comp. R. & Regs. 511-2-8-.01 (effective: 9/21/2022)
II. Specific judicial decisions concerning EPT (or like practices)
III. Specific administrative opinions by the Attorney General or medical or pharmacy boards concerning EPT (or like practices)
IV. Laws that incorporate via reference guidelines as acceptable practices (including EPT)
V. Prescription requirements
[+] Prescriptions transmitted electronically or by fax must bear patient’s name and address “unless the prescription drug order is prescribed pursuant to expedited partner therapy in accordance with Code Section 31-17-7.1.” “Ga. Code Ann. § 26-4-80.
VI. Assessment of EPT’s legal status with brief comments
EPT is permissible. Statutory authority and administrative regulations expressly authorize health care professionals to provide EPT for chlamydia and gonorrhea.