Conservative

Rep. Bryan Terry: Why I Support The Medical Cannabis Only Act

February 27, 2018 By Admin

MURFREESBORO- Perhaps the most controversial bill this session is the Medical Cannabis Only Act(MCOA). For many, it is controversial because of fear, or of ignorance, or of the unknown. For others, it is controversial because of what is known about cannabis and many of those facts become conflated when one focuses solely on the medical aspect. Regardless, when I first ran for office beginning in 2013, I developed and campaigned on the three pillars of my platform: Principles, Process, and Passion. I wanted to take a moment to explain my platform as it relates to the MCOA and explain how and why I support and signed on to the bill.

Principles:

There are three principles in my platform, and it is my goal to strike a perfect balance. I refer to them as the three rights.

The first right is “What is our right?” In other words, what is legal or what is Constitutional. Just because something is legal or even constitutional doesn’t necessarily mean it is the right thing to do. At one point, slavery was considered legal and constitutional. Strict authoritarian thought often leads one to enforce or even follow immoral laws. In addition, strict libertarian thought often leads one to focus strictly on their right, as opposed to, also, protecting the rights of others.

The second right is “What is right for the district(or state or country)?” What benefits the majority of the constituency or what does the majority of the constituency want. One would refer to this as populism or populist thought. One must realize, though, that just because the majority wants something, it does not mean that it is constitutional or even the right thing to do. We do not operate as a true democracy where there can be a tyranny of the masses, but we must protect individual liberty.

Last, but not least is “What is right?” In other words, what is the right course of action in my world view based on my background, my family, my faith, and my world view. Folks that only focus on this right would often be referred to as a theocrat or an ideologue. Obviously, I am neither.

Process:

When looking at issues, I try to put them through a four step process that with the end decision ultimately lining up with the three rights. Those steps are, premise, goals, options, and feasibility of those options.

One must first determine if the premise is true and if there is truly a problem that we are looking to address. Secondly, what are your goals of any legislation? Do you wish to completely fix the issue or only address part of the problem. Do you plan to only bring awareness?

The third step is to determine the possible options and the consequences of those options. Doing nothing is always an option. Lastly, what is the feasibility of those options? In other words, are there votes for that option? What is the fiscal impact of that option? Is the option a workable solution and able to be implemented?

Passion:

If one is able to take an issue through a process and have it line up with their principles, then they should be able to defend their position with a passion. I have taken the issue of medical use of cannabis or cannabis extracts through this process; hence, I am able to discuss the issue with a passion and have decided to support the Medical Cannabis Only Act.

The first option we always have is to do nothing. Obviously, of all options, this is the most feasible. However, this option, in my opinion, violates each of the three rights. When asked either with my survey, other surveys, or with individual conversations, a vast majority of the district supports the use of cannabis extracts for medical or research purposes, though not for recreational nor pseudo-medicinal purposes. MTSU grows and does research on all of the cannabis chemicals except THC. MTSU could be a state or even world leader in pharmaceutical or nutraceutical uses of cannabis extracts. Doing nothing goes against what is right for the district and retards progress for patients.

In addition, the Federal Government holds a hypocritical stance on cannabis that violates the 10th Amendment, the Commerce Clause, and the Due Process Clause of the Constitution. Doing nothing is consent to allowing these violations of our rights; thus violating the second right in my principles.

Lastly, doing nothing will continue to suppress much needed research, as well as place undue burdens on Tennesseans with medical conditions that have been shown to benefit from medicinal uses of cannabis extracts. Neuropathic pain, Crohn’s Disease, spasticity, and seizure’s are but a few conditions that have shown to benefit from cannabis extracts. While cannabis extracts are not a panacea, they can benefit some patients. Not acting on cannabis extracts violates my third principle of “what is right” as, in my opinion, providing options to patients and expanding research is the right thing to do.

The second and third options, respectively, are to either legalize the whole plant or have an expansive medical marijuana program like Colorado or other states. Without going into specifics, these options don’t line up with the three rights to bring them into balance, and neither option has the votes to gain any momentum in the General Assembly. While many folks may ruminate over these two options as a viable options to the Medical Cannabis Only Act, the bottom line is that neither option is one that is going to go very far in any committee.

The final option is to have a program like the Medical Cannabis Only Act. The act would allow cannabis extracts to be used in an oil based form for strictly defined medical purposes. Raw plant and flower use would still be illegal. The process for the patient would require receiving a specific diagnosis from a physician, a consultation with a pharmacist for medicine therapy management, and a card with dosing limits set by a commission. One could obtain the medicine from a dispensary, but only in communities that would allow dispensaries. The bill is permissive which means that counties would need to pass a referendum to allow and regulate participation in their communities.

Obviously, the steps to possible treatment is a bit more onerous than receiving and filling a prescription, but with the draconian and hypocritical stances from the Federal Government, the method is probably the most feasible method that can pass and be implemented.

Understanding that this option is feasible which satisfies part of my process, one must understand how it, also, satisfies the three rights. First, as previously pointed out, it is “right for the district”. The majority support the use of cannabis extracts for medicinal or research purposes. MTSU is currently doing research on cannabis as hemp with promising results. Most recently, I saw polls from a cross section of Senate districts that confirmed that Tennessee favored the use of cannabis extracts by a wide margin.

Secondly, the current posture of the Federal Government is that cannabis and all its chemicals are Schedule 1 drugs. Yet, every chemical is legal in Tennessee, as long as it isn’t grown from marijuana. Marijuana and hemp are the same plant except marijuana has greater than 0.3% THC. Synthetic THC is legal as a prescribed medication called Marinol.

In 1974, the Nixon Administration, with the Controlled Substance Act, placed cannabis into the Schedule 1 category which basically means that they believed it had no medical benefit and that it was too dangerous to study. Yet, the federal government has its own strain of cannabis that they market overseas and they allow research at Ole Miss. In addition, there are a multitude of patients that have had improved symptoms with cannabis based treatments. The Federal Government stance is hypocritical at best and unconstitutional at worst. We, as a state, can and should exert our 10th Amendment rights for patients in Tennessee. It is our right to do so and satisfies the second right.

Lastly, it is the right thing to do. Patients with cancer, Crohn’s Disease, neuropathic pain, seizures, and other disorders can benefit from cannabis extracts. I can give various examples of patients and constituents that I know that have their own personal stories. Some continue to suffer without our help. Some live in the shadows addressing their symptoms and play Russian Roulette with cannabis not knowing if they would get arrested or obtain some spiked with fentanyl.

One such patient whose life changed with cannabis based treatment is Alexis Bortell, the twelve year old from Texas who is suing the Federal government so that she can continue treating with her medications. She developed intractable epilepsy at the age of seven and, by age nine, had tried over 30 medical regimens. None worked. And she was suffering life-threatening seizures every day – often multiple times per day. Faced with a high-risk medication or experimental brain surgery, her family, with the guidance of physicians, opted to move to Colorado and try cannabis based therapy. By day 33, after she started a new regimen of cannabis with THC, Alexis’s seizures stopped completely, and she has been seizure free for nearly three years. Alexis went from suffering through multiple seizures a day to never having any seizures at all – and all after she started treating with cannabis. Though willing, due to Federal and Tennessee laws, she is unable to testify on behalf of the Medical Cannabis Only Act this week unless subpoenaed by Tennessee.

“My Dad and I spoke with Dr. Terry about my situation. I am living proof that treating with medical cannabis can change and save peoples’ lives. Except for the risks of not having my medicine and the federal and state restrictions, I live a normal and productive life. No more seizures. No more hospital visits. No more talk of experimental brain surgery. I’ve been told that there are around 70,000 Tennesseans with seizure disorders and about 5,000 of those are kids like me,” stated Alexis. “It takes courageous leaders like those supporting the Medical Cannabis Only Act to speak out on medical cannabis. I’m hoping that the other legislators have the courage to join them so I can come to Tennessee. I hear it is a beautiful state.”

Our daughter is nine, the same age as Alexis when the Bortell’s were faced with a difficult medical situation. I don’t know how anyone could look at their child and tell them that they either had to take a high risk medication that could kill them or have brain surgery knowing that there is potentially another option. The Bortell’s made the right decision. Tennesseans shouldn’t have to make that choice.

Folks, it’s the right thing to do to pass the Medical Cannabis Only Act. It’s the right time to do it, and the right bill to move forward.

Representative Bryan Terry represents District 48 which is the eastern half of Rutherford County and can be reached at 615-741-2180 or vie email at Rep.Bryan.Terry@Capitol.TN.Gov.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter.

Rep. Bryan Terry Introduces Measures To Tackle TN Opioid Crisis

January 22, 2018 By Admin

Rep. Bryan Terry Hosts Speaker Beth Harwell For Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital Tour

NASHVILLE, January 22, 2018– Representative Bryan Terry, MD (R-Murfreesboro), chairman of the Tennessee House Health Subcommittee, has filed legislation and has other legislation ready to be filed to address the opioid crisis facing Tennessee. With the issue being multifaceted in nature, Rep. Terry is looking to touch various aspects of the problem with his legislation, as well as advocate for other aspects not necessarily requiring legislation.

While many look at prescribing habits leading to excess opioids in circulation as a leading cause of the problem, Rep. Terry explained that the problem runs much deeper. “There are various cogs in the wheel driving the opioid crisis. Failure to properly address legal and illicit access to opioids, addiction, treatment, lack of education, and government meddling has created a perfect storm leading to this problem. While looking to address each aspect of the problem, we must ensure that we protect legitimate patients and legitimate providers.”

The first bill filed by Rep. Terry aims to provide a deterrent to the illegal manufacturing, sales, and distribution of potent opioids like fentanyl and sufentanil which are used in chronic pain and the perioperative period, and carfentanil which was developed as a large animal tranquilizer. These drugs are often cited as being 100 to 10,000 times as potent as morphine. “Potency and route of administration increase the speed of addiction. Some of this is coming in from China via Mexico and finding its way to our streets. While we have had some arrests in Tennessee, New York and Florida have had some high profile cases involving up to 32 million lethal doses,” explained Terry. The bill increase the penalty for possession, sales, distribution, or manufacturing of these drugs to an A or B Class felony depending on the amount of lethal doses involved in the arrest.

On the prevention side, Rep Terry explained that as with many issues, the root of the problem is often found on the supply and demand curve. “While looking to cut down on the illicit supply, we must look to address various aspects of demand. Proper education on the risks, as well as decreasing barriers to alternative health care modalities that treat pain without opioids are vital to decreasing this problem.”

“Neuropathic pain, chronic pain syndromes, and even perioperative pain can be treated with nerve blocks or pain injections. Our current system, especially within TennCare, is set up to incentivize the use of opioids over other modalities. Incentivizing the use of cheap opioids over viable alternatives increases the risk of addiction and demand. I will be offering a bill to change that,” explained Rep. Terry.

Another possibility that could decrease the use of narcotics is the medicinal uses of cannabinoids which are in cannabis. “Crohn’s Disease, spasticity involved in MS, and other painful conditions can see benefit from cannabinoids which can potentially cut down narcotic usage without the recreational high often produced by smoking or ingesting. It’s hypocritical that the federal government makes all cannabinoids Schedule 1 drugs, yet Marinol, which is synthetic THC is legal in all states including Tennessee. Ignorance and fear is no way to govern, and that form of governance is hurting patients.” Rep. Terry says he is supportive of research and medicinal uses of cannabinoids under the care of medical providers.

Diversion is the process of taking opioids from a legal prescription and diverting the drugs to be used recreationally. “Overprescribing and doctor shopping are two aspects that increase the risk of diversion. I have legislation that will attack that on two fronts. Currently, one can hold on to an opioid prescription for up to six months before it is filed in the system and filled by a pharmacist. My bill will require a prescription to be on file with a pharmacy within seven days and filled within 60 days. Secondly, some individuals do not want the entire prescription at one time. The bill will allow for partial filling of an opioid prescription to cut down on the amount someone may want at their home.” Rep. Terry says that he is working with the Tennessee Medical Association and Tennessee Pharmacist Association on the legislation.

Rep. Terry is, also, set to propose legislation for an opioid hotline within the Tennessee Department of Health which will provide whistleblower protection for those who come forth with information in good faith about potential abuses in the medical system. Recently, 60 Minutes aired an expose on abuses of oversupplies of opioids to pharmacies or medical facilities. In addition, local pill mills, mail order pharmacy facilities, and unscrupulous providers have led to an excess of opioids in the public. The legislation looks to curb those unethical practices.

While prevention of demand and reduction of supply are two of the main components in solving the opioid crisis, treatment for those caught in the crosshairs is an important aspect of tackling the problem. Rep. Terry is carrying a bill that would allow long acting injectable Suboxone be available in Tennessee for opioid addiction treatment. “Folks, often, only have thirty days of inpatient treatment covered by insurance. Unless someone is treated for up to ninety days or longer, the relapse rates are greater than ninety percent. Injectable Suboxone that lasts thirty days will help decrease the rates and costs of relapse, and it will decrease diversion of the current pill form. I know that Governor Haslam is looking at increased funding for treatment, and I have spoken to his administration about this treatment option.”

Representative Bryan Terry represents District 48 which is the eastern half of Rutherford County and can be reached at 615-741-2180 or vie email at Rep.Bryan.Terry@Capitol.TN.Gov.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter.

Rep. Bryan Terry Hosts Speaker Beth Harwell For Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital Tour

November 16, 2017 By Admin

(MURFREESBORO), November 9, 2017 — State Representative Bryan Terry, MD (R-Murfreesboro) and administrative and operating room leaders from Ascension Health System hosted Tennessee House Speaker Beth Harwell (R-Nashville) for a tour of Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital yesterday.

The tour coincided with an announcement made by the Tennessee Health Services and Development Agency which paves the way for a $47 million investment related to expansion of the facility, as well as construction of a new surgical treatment center to be located on New Salem Highway.

As part of the project, St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital will add 72 new hospital beds — bringing its total to 385. Additionally, a new Clinical Decision Unit is planned near the current emergency room. When completed, it will provide an additional 25 beds for patients who require hospital stays of less than 24 hours. Construction has already begun and is expected to be completed by the summer of 2018.

“With the continued growth we are experiencing in Rutherford County and the increase in services provided by the hospital, I am pleased to see these critical upgrades made to our current health system,” said Representative Terry. “Additionally, I am grateful to Speaker Harwell for visiting with us and listening to the concerns and experiences of our physicians, nurses, and staff.”

The tour began with a visit to the perioperative area which includes a holding area, recovery room, as well as the main operating suite which houses 12 operating rooms. It included a stop in the emergency department, as well as the neonatal intensive care unit where Speaker Harwell listened intently to physicians and others about their experiences. Representative Terry — an anesthesiologist at the hospital and the Chairman of the House Health Subcommittee — believes the timing of the tour was excellent.

“Together, Speaker Harwell and I were able to better understand some of the challenges facing our thriving community which will enable us to potentially create new solutions to address some of these issues during the upcoming legislative session,” stated Terry.

“I would like to thank Representative Terry and the staff at Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital for providing an opportunity for me to see some of the remarkable progress this facility has made to accommodate the community’s astounding growth,” said Speaker Harwell. “It was also very powerful to hear firsthand experience from physicians, nurses, and staff related to the treatment of patients in acute or perioperative pain, as well as those facing opioid addiction.”

In recent years, Tennessee has experienced a startling increase in instances of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) related to the state’s continuing opioid crisis. NAS occurs when a baby is exposed to drugs in the womb before birth and can cause serious health issues. Approximately 90 percent of NAS pregnancies tend to be unplanned, and babies who are born with NAS usually require longer hospital stays at a cost of almost $48,000 in TennCare expenses in the first year of life.

“Since Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is a major concern across our state, I appreciate the doctors, nurses, and staff who shared their valuable insight and experiences with me related to this troubling issue affecting some of our youngest citizens,” said Speaker Harwell. “Their powerful words and testimony will help all of us work to address a critical aspect of Tennessee’s opioid crisis.”

“The opioid issue is a concern in the medical community and at the Capitol. Being an anesthesiologist and a legislator, I am seeing its impact in both areas; finding solutions that protect legitimate patients while preventing the harm caused by abuses will require us to examine all options and work together as a legislative body in 2018 and in future years,” concluded Terry.

Bryan Terry, MD serves as Chairman of the House Health Subcommittee, as well as a member of the House Health and Civil Justice Committees. He lives in Murfreesboro and represents House District 48, which includes the eastern half of Rutherford County. Terry can be reached by calling (615) 741-2180 or emailing: Rep.Bryan.Terry@capitol.tn.gov.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter.

Rep. Bryan Terry, MD To Serve On New Wellness Caucus

November 16, 2017 By Admin

(NASHVILLE) November 16, 2017 — State Representative Bryan Terry (R-Murfreesboro) today announced that he will serve on a new Wellness Caucus created by members of the Tennessee General Assembly and in collaboration with the Governor’s Foundation for Health and Wellness.

The caucus is chaired by State Representative Ryan Williams (R-Cookeville) and Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson). It consists of 37 members — including 28 Republicans — from both the House and Senate who will study and propose new solutions to important health and wellness issues in communities across the state.

While Nashville is considered a health care hub for our entire nation, Tennessee still remains one of the least healthy states in the country. Approximately one in four adults smokes, and one in five high school students uses tobacco. Additionally, 33 percent of the state’s population is classified as obese, and type-2 diabetes and high blood pressure are at near-epidemic levels in all regions of the state.

Caucus members will help shape future public policy so that Tennesseans impacted by some of these adverse health conditions are able to make lifestyle changes that will improve their health and overall quality of life.

“I am honored to be asked to serve on this new Wellness Caucus,” stated Representative Terry, who is also Chairman of the House Health Subcommittee. “Many of the health problems we face in our district including the opioid epidemic, diabetes, and hypertension impact all regions of Tennessee. This caucus provides an opportunity for all members of the General Assembly — including those who do not currently serve on our health committees — to establish goals and shape the future landscape of health and well-being in our state.”

For more information about the Governor’s Foundation for Health & Wellness, please visit: http://healthierTN.com.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter.

Rep. Bryan Terry Named “Champion of Prosperity”

November 6, 2017 By Admin

MURFREESBORO, Nov. 6, 2017– Representative Bryan Terry, MD (R-Murfreesboro) was presented with the Champion of Prosperity award from Americans for Prosperity-Tennessee recently at the GOP headquarters in downtown Murfreesboro. The award was earned by Rep. Terry and other Tennessee legislators who displayed a track record of defending taxpayers while promoting individual and business prosperity during the 2017 session.

“Americans for Prosperity-Tennessee is recognizing legislators across the state who stood up for Tennessee taxpayers in 2017,” stated James Amundsen, Deputy State Director Of AFP-TN. “Representative Terry has a long track record of being the taxpayer’s friend while advocating for income mobility, jobs, and less government. We are honored to present him with a ‘Champion of Prosperity’ award for 2017.”

During his tenure as state representative for District 48, has earned the reputation as a leader for hard working individuals, families and small businesses. During the 2017 session, he was the only legislator to appear on the 99.7 WTN gas tax town hall to argue against the tax hike and vote against the measure. In addition, in proving that he is willing to work for taxpayers, he offered three different amendments to the gas tax hike that would have saved taxpayers money or not cost taxpayers a dime while stabilizing transportation funding.

“Most people may not be aware, but the IMPROVE Act wasn’t just a gas tax hike. It had fourteen new or increased fees, four increased taxes on fuel, and six local tax increase options. While it offered some tax decreases that were positive, it certainly wasn’t pocketbook neutral to Tennessee families,” stated Rep. Terry. “Inflation has risen above expected rates due to the hurricane’s impact on gas prices, and the gas tax didn’t help. Tennessee is fortunate that consumer confidence is rising under President Trump and Tennessee is positioned well economically; thus, mitigating some of the negative effects of the tax hike.”

Rep. Terry says that working in small business and as an anesthesiologist, he has had experience with both lives and livelihoods in his hands. “Growing up and working in a third generation auto salvage family and now being a partner in a medical practice, I certainly know and understand the struggles of small businesses and employees. Whether dealing with the business side personally or listening to constituent concerns, my background in both the blue collar and white collar worlds helps me to be a better advocate for the district.”

Tennessee is ranked number one in small business growth, has the least debt per capita, and has the lowest state taxes. In addition, Tennessee’s unemployment rate is the lowest in recorded history while the average small business wages are $22.84 per hour which is well above the $15 per hour argued for by liberals and socialists.

“It’s truly an honor to receive this award. I’m proud to stand with the people of Tennessee and our business community to ensure we have prosperity for our individuals and hard working families,” said Rep. Terry.

Representative Bryan Terry, MD is the Chairman of the Tennessee House Health Subcommittee and serves on the full House Health and Civil Justice Committees. His office can be reached at 615-741-2180 or rep.Bryan.Terry@capitol.tn.gov.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter.

Rep. Bryan Terry Introduces Reliable Coverage Act

February 10, 2017 By Admin

TN Patient & Provider Groups Applaud Legislation to Protect Against Unfair & Unsafe Prescription Coverage Reductions

The Reliable Coverage Act Helps Ensure Tennesseans Receive the Pharmacy Benefits They Are Sold During Open Enrollment

NASHVILLE – February 9, 2017 – An unexpected denial letter in the mail, a surprise bill at the pharmacy counter: many Tennessee consumers are discovering the prescription coverage benefits they signed up for are not the benefits they actually receive. It’s a problem new legislation aims to fix, according to the Tennessee Patient Stability Coalition, a coalition of 17 leading patient and provider groups. The coalition today applauded a bill that would require commercial health plans honor the terms of their prescription coverage plans for the duration of the contract year. The legislation, known as the “Reliable Coverage Act” (SB 991/HB 960), would protect consumers by preventing prescription coverage reductions outside of the open enrollment period.

“As both a physician and a consumer, I am proud to stand behind a common-sense bill that asks insurers to follow through on the benefits they offer during open enrollment,” said Sen. Mark Green (R-Clarksville), who, along with Rep. Bryan Terry (R-Murfreesboro), is sponsoring the legislation. “If insurers advertise and sell a certain level of prescription coverage, Tennesseans should be able to rely on that coverage for the remainder of the contract year.”

“Aside from consumer protection and fairness, the other big issue is that these plan changes can be unsafe,” said Terry, who is also a physician. “If you’re living with a serious health condition and your insurer changes your prescription benefits, then you can be switched to an entirely different drug with different side effects and degrees of effectiveness. This has a real-life impact on patients which can lead to exacerbating one’s condition or even hospitalization.”

Insurers may reduce prescription coverage after open enrollment in a variety of ways, including removing a medication from coverage altogether, increasing out-of-pocket costs for a medication or placing additional restrictions around access (such as requiring prior authorization). The practice of reducing drug coverage midyear has become known as “non-medical switching,” because it often forces patients to switch to an insurer-preferred medication, regardless of the potentially negative impact on their health.

“Arbitrarily forcing patients off a medication with no advanced warning and for no medical reason is both unfair and dangerous,” said Katherine Moffat, executive director of the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants, which is a member of the Tennessee Patient Stability Coalition. “Patients and their clinicians may work together for years, trying multiple medications, before they find one that works. These midyear coverage reductions can upend a patient’s hard-won stability, resulting in otherwise-avoidable symptoms, side effects and even relapse. Insurers should not be able to interfere with treatment in such a significant, potentially harmful way.”

Proponents of the bill point to studies that show non-medical switching may result in poorer health outcomes and, as a result, may actually increase overall health care costs. For example, one study found that patients with epilepsy who were switched off their original medication experienced more breakthrough seizures and sought more inpatient and emergency care than those were not switched. An analysis of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s, psoriasis and other autoimmune conditions who were switched found they incurred 37 percent higher medical costs than normal.

“We are hearing stories from consumers across Tennessee who are stable on a medication for years and then are suddenly forced off,” said Jeff Fladen, executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illnesss-Tennessee, also a coalition member. “With mental illness, treatment often looks more like an art than a science as the treatment provider tries various medications. It can take years to find the correct medications that enable an individual to keep symptoms at bay. People with mental illness may have to miss work as they struggle to find a new medication that works, which means lost productivity or even lost jobs and economic self-sufficiency. Then there’s the emotional impact of unexpectedly losing access to the drug you relied on. Simply put, it’s wrong.”

While the bill would prohibit insurers from reducing prescription coverage during the plan year, it would not impede insurers from adding medications to their formularies, including new generic products, or making changes necessary for safety reasons that are outlined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It also would not affect or prohibit generic substitution.

“The Reliable Coverage Act is a straightforward piece of legislation that will protect consumers from unnecessary, unfair reductions to their health plans,” said Shaina Smith, director of State Advocacy & Alliance Development for the U.S. Pain Foundation, which leads the Tennessee Patient Stability Coalition. “We thank Representative Bryan Terry and Senator Mark Green for realizing the lack of consumer protections in the state of Tennessee and putting together a thoughtful, bipartisan solution.”

A survey conducted by the coalition shows that unforeseen insurance coverage changes are a major problem in Tennessee. According to the survey, 58 percent of Tennesseans living with chronic illness said their insurance company made coverage changes during the plan year that reduced coverage of their prescription medication, and 67 percent of these were forced to switch treatments as a result. Of these:

66 percent reported that, after switching, their medication was less effective;
89 percent reported that the side effects were worse on the insurer-preferred drug;
44 percent said they never received any notice from their insurer detailing their plan’s formulary of the changes being made to it;
99 percent support legislation that would prohibit insurance companies from financially pressuring patients to switch their prescribed medication for non-medical reasons.

About the Tennessee Patient Stability Coalition

The Tennessee Patient Stability Coalition, made up of 17 patient and clinician groups, is dedicated to protecting consumers from the unfair insurance practice known as “non-medical switching,” which occurs when insurers reduce coverage of medications after the consumer has already signed on to the original plan terms. Coalition members include: AIMED Alliance, Alliance for Patient Access, Arthritis Foundation, Coalition of State Rheumatology Organizations, Global Healthy Living Foundation, Lupus and Allied Diseases Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness-Davidson County, National Alliance on Mental Illness-Tennessee, Patients Rising, The Arc of Tennessee, TN AIDs Action Network, TN Dermatology Society, TN Disability Coalition, TN Nurses Association, TN Physician Assistants, TN Rheumatology Society and the U.S. Pain Foundation, which leads the coalition. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/TNPatientStabilityCoalition/.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter.

Rep. Bryan Terry does a Q&A reflecting over 2016 and what’s next

December 21, 2016 By Admin

MURFREESBORO, December 21, 2016– Rep. Bryan Terry does a Q&A reflecting over the past year and what’s next for Tennessee….

What are the big takeaways from the presidential election?

I think there are a few lessons that can be learned. The Democrats should learn that calling a large portion of the country derogatory slurs like deplorable, racist, or phobic just because one holds a different opinion is not productive. The American people rejected a divisive message based on polarization and Saul Alinsky tactics. On the Republican side, there was a repudiation of the establishment’s business as usual politics. Back in 2014, as a self governance candidate, I ran as a complete outsider with a belief that “we the people” were tired of those choices. I think that sentiment holds true not just locally, but nationally.

How will a Trump Administration affect the state of Tennessee?

Tennessee had very little flexibility in education, health care, economic and other policies under the Obama administration. A Clinton administration would have worsened the Federal stranglehold. Assuming President Elect Trump’s administration is friendly to the 10th Amendment, the 50 states can serve as the laboratories of democracy as intended by our founders. We will have the opportunity to advance our policies to better serve Tennesseans.

You didn’t have a primary opponent, and you had a general opponent with very little name recognition, yet you ran an extensive campaign, why?

As a self governance candidate and legislator, I think it is important to talk to people one on one either at their door, at events, or just in the community. You get a better pulse of the community and district than when you stay in an echo chamber or just run a poll. It is truly and honor and a privilege to earn someone’s vote, and the people of District 48 need to know that I am earning their vote and support both on the campaign trail and as their voice at the Capitol.

As you campaigned this year, what did Rutherford Countians ask you about the most, or express interest in seeing happen the most?

Obviously, a lot of the talk was about the Presidential race. But when talking local and state issues, the burdens of Obamacare and skyrocketing insurance costs, education, jobs and transportation were frequent topics. Most liked me being an active voice at the Capitol and locally. They encouraged me to keep doing what I’m doing. For me, receiving positive feedback and outperforming election expectations provides encouragement as we move forward.

What will the priorities of the next General Assembly be?

It is my hope that Governor Haslam and the General Assembly will see the opportunity that has been presented to us with the election of Donald Trump. We have the potential to put forth proactive, conservative legislation dealing with health care, transportation, education, and the economy that won’t be stonewalled at the federal level. I think those will be some of the priorities. The questions will revolve around the substance of those bills.

What will your personal priorities be in the next General Assembly?

As a representative, you often have to wear different hats and juggle various responsibilities or issues. Right now, I’ve been talking to legal services about some of the potential bills that have been brought to me by citizens. I think it is important for people to know they have a voice working for them at the Capitol. Additionally, outreach is a passion of mine. I’m looking for various ways to get people all across the spectrum involved. I’ve, also, been asked, as an opinion leader, to help forge some of the proactive measures that our General Assembly will be putting forth the next session.

What can citizens do to get involved or make a difference?

A lot of people have asked what they can do to make a difference. I would encourage people bring forth their issues and ideas to any elected official. My office can be reached at 615-741-2180 or via email at rep.Bryan.Terry@Capitol.TN.gov. I’m more than happy to visit with someone at the Capitol or in Murfreesboro, as well.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter. Donate Below!

Rep. Bryan Terry Interivew On Motivational Boost WGNS

July 25, 2016 By Admin

Murfreesboro, Tenn., July 25, 2016– Last week, Dr. Bryan Terry interviewed with Steve Yates on WGNS radio. Dr. Terry answered questions regarding his plans for the future, his political heroes and some of his legislative accomplishments.

To listen to the interview, CLICK HERE.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter. Donate Below!

Rep. Bryan Terry Endorsed By Pro-Life Group

July 6, 2016 By Admin

MURFREESBORO, Tenn., –Last week, Rep. Bryan Terry, MD was officially endorsed by Tennessee Right to Life (TNRTL) for the 2016 State Representative race for District 48 which is the eastern half of Rutherford County. Brian Harris, President of TN Right to Life, stated that Rep. Terry and the other statewide endorsed candidates “have demonstrated a determined and consistent commitment to restoring protection for life by their 100% voting records and leadership. They are worthy of the Right to Life endorsement and they are worthy of your vote.”

TNRTL presented their endorsement on the heels of the controversial Supreme Court(SCOTUS) decision against two Texas laws concerning abortion. Harris, in a response to the SCOTUS decision stated, “Not only did five judges strike down common-sense provisions passed by the Texas Legislature to protect the health and safety of women and girls considering abortion, the Court also toughened the standard by which future pro-life statutes will be judged by courts across the nation.”

Harris further stated, “That’s why it’s all the more critical that pro-life voters send a clear message back to the Courts by electing the absolute strongest pro-life legislators and representatives possible!” Rep. Terry, by receiving the endorsement, is considered one of those legislators.

“It’s a blessing to be able to be an advocate for the unborn while protecting the safety of women. I look at the issue as trying to protect two lives, and I am honored to have received the endorsement,” declared Rep. Terry. “We take care of women at the hospital and surgery center who have procedures for miscarriages that are similar to what women have when they have an abortion. It boggles the mind that the Supreme Court doesn’t believe that women having an abortion should have the same safe standard of care,” explained Rep. Terry about the SCOTUS decision against Texas.

Rep. Terry stated that he actually may have set a precedent this year when he passed HB 1654 ironically with the aid of Planned Parenthood. Though staunchly pro life, Dr. Terry said that he reached out to TNRTL, the Governor’s administration, and Planned Parenthood for his bill. In the end, all supported his bill and, as such, HB 1654 may be the only bill surrounding the abortion issue that passed both the House and Senate without a no vote.

The bill was inspired by the 2015 summer events surrounding the selling of fetal parts. The bill amended the Tennessee code to require a written paper trail via consent of the woman if research or experiments are done on fetal tissue. And secondly, the bill conferred whistleblower immunity in the event that pictures were taken of the fetal tissue if the photographer had reason to believe a state or federal law was being violated.

“I was very proud of that bill for a few reasons. First, these were reasonable measures to ensure that illegal activity surrounding fetal tissue didn’t occur in Tennessee. But aside from the abortion issue, I think it is important for people to know that there are legislators willing to talk to all parties of an issue, no matter how controversial, and find a path forward,” explained Terry.

Rep. Bryan Terry, MD served as the Republican Chairman of the Bipartisan Freshman Caucus, and received a 100% conservative rating from the American Conservative Union. He is running unopposed in the Republican primary for District 48.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter. Donate Below!

Rep. Bryan Terry, MD Awarded the “Family Champion Award”

May 31, 2016 By Admin

State Representative Bryan Terry, MD was awarded the Family Champion Award by the Family Action Council of Tennessee (FACT) for his voting record for families during the 109th Tennessee General Assembly (TGA). FACT scored the voting records of all members of the TGA for their support of families, pro-life issues, and religious liberty. By receiving a perfect score, Rep. Terry was recognized for his consistent support of families.

Commenting on winning the award, Rep. Terry said he has put his motto of “Principles, Process, and Passion” into practice at the Capitol. “When I first ran for office, I told the voters of District 48 that I would stand up for our liberties and values on principle. As each bill or issue has presented itself, I’ve looked to do just that. I’m honored to have received the award,” stated Dr. Terry. “But more than just standing on principle, I’m honored to be able to contribute to the process of creating positive legislation.”

As an ardent pro-life legislator, Dr. Terry co-sponsored Governor Haslam’s administration bill HB 2577 which establishes requirements for the disposition of fetal remains. The bill came about following last summer’s nationwide story of abortion facilities selling fetal tissue and body parts. However, beyond HB 2577, Rep. Terry continued looking into the issue and the Tennessee code to see if anything further needed to be addressed.

Rep. Terry drafted and sponsored HB 1654 which clarified that any consent for research or experiments on fetal tissue have written consent of the woman. As such, it would ensure that a paper trail exists. Additionally, the bill allows the taking of photographs of the aborted fetus without the woman’s consent if it is done for the purpose of capturing images that the person reasonably believes depict evidence of a violation of a state or federal law, rule, or regulation. This provision confers immunity for whistleblowers.

Aside from the legal purposes of HB 1654, the significance of the bill is that it it drew bipartisan support. The bill passed unanimously in the House and Senate and never received a “no” vote throughout the process. As the Republican Chairman of the Bipartisan Freshman Caucus, Rep. Terry expressed his satisfaction with accomplishing the feat on such a controversial issue. “I spoke with Tennessee Right to Life, the administration, and even Planned Parenthood on the issue. By working with all stakeholders, I was able to get their support. It proves that when you are willing to talk and listen to all sides, then sometimes you can find unanimous bipartisan agreement,” said Rep. Terry.

Another bill that FACT scored was HB 1840 which is otherwise known as the counseling bill. The bill allows counselor’s to refer patients to another counselor if the patient’s goals or behaviors conflict with a sincerely held principle of the counselor. Said Dr. Terry, “It wasn’t my bill, but since it was in my committee, I worked with both sides of that bill, too. I had drafted several amendments, but couldn’t get both to agree with all of my concerns. In the end, I got the bill sponsor to agree to work with me next session if any unintended consequences occur that harm patients.” By getting a commitment from the sponsor to protect patients and with the bill protecting the First and Fourteenth Amendment rights of the counselors, Rep. Terry voted for the bill.

“I know there is often a lot of emotion tied to these social issues. But I think it is important to set emotion aside until one works through the principles and process. Once you do that, then you can carry or promote the legislation with passion,” stated Rep. Terry. Dr. Bryan Terry is running for reelection as State Representative for District 48 and is currently unopposed in the August 4 primary.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter. Donate Below!