What type of patients are considered exempt under NSSA for narcotic regulations?

Patients who are considered exempt under the Narcotic Safety and Security Act (NSSA) include prisoners. This exemption is in place because the complexities of medication management in a correctional environment necessitate specific regulations that take into account the unique circumstances of the prison population. These individuals may have different needs for narcotic medications due to factors such as mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and the need for rehabilitation services.

In contrast, other patient groups, such as outpatients at a clinic, individuals on medication therapy management, and those awaiting surgery, do not have specific exemptions under NSSA. They are generally subject to the standard narcotic regulations that govern prescribing, dispensing, and the monitoring of these medications to ensure their safe and appropriate use. This means that outpatients and those requiring medication therapy management or awaiting surgery must follow the usual legal requirements to ensure compliance with narcotic controls.