State Representative Bryan Terry

Representative Bryan Terry Fights To Support Tennessee’s Strong Economy

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(Nashville, Tenn.) — Throughout his time serving in the Tennessee General Assembly, State Representative Bryan Terry (R-Murfreesboro) has fought to make Tennessee an attractive destination for businesses and for families.

By supporting legislation that strengthens our business-friendly environments, cutting taxes, and eliminating burdensome, job-killing regulations, Terry and his Republican colleagues have ensured Tennessee’s unemployment rate remains near historic low levels — just 3.4 percent as of June 2019.

U.S. News recently ranked Tennessee No.1 in their report for Best States for Fiscal Stability while Business Facilities Magazine recognized Tennessee as having the best business climate.  

“Our conservative, job friendly policies are helping Tennessee attract and grow businesses.  We’re seeing businesses move to Tennessee from other states while also seeing Tennesseans open new businesses,” stated Terry.  “Business leaders are showing confidence in Tennessee and it is reflected in our strong economy.”

With low unemployment rates and a strong business climate, Tennessee’s average median household income is growing at the second fastest rate in the entire southeast.  The average private business hourly wage has grown in Tennessee and is hovering around $24 per hour without the regulatory endangerment of a $15 an hour minimum wage mandate. 

“Tennessee is rising to the task of better jobs and wages without resorting to added regulatory burdens and legislative mandates that are counterproductive. However, this is just one piece of the puzzle to improve the quality of life for Tennesseans,” stated Terry. “Families and businesses prioritize various attributes of a community or state when looking to grow a business or raise a family.  I am working diligently with my colleagues to address these other elements like health, safety, and quality education.”

While not often cited as the main deciding factor for family and business location, access to recreation and leisure activities often plays a pivotal role.  Industries such as leisure, hospitality, and tourism, tend to thrive in healthy economic areas like Tennessee. The tourism industry — which currently employs 189,757 citizens and accounts for 6 percent of all jobs — generated over $1.8 billion in state and local revenue alone last year. That is a $50 million increase for the state over the previous year.

“Our economy is firing on all cylinders right now, and new companies are relocating to Tennessee every day. Clearly, Tennessee tourism and the hospitality industry are key components to our overall success, and my colleagues and I will continue to support those employed through these and all of our industries. Under Republican leadership, Tennessee will remain the best place in the entire nation to live, work, raise a family, and retire,” Terry concluded.

Bryan Terry, MD serves as Chairman of the House Health Committee. He is also a member of the House Insurance and the House Calendar & Rules Committees, as well as the Facilities, Licensure & Regulations, Mental Health, Public Health, and TennCare Subcommittees. Terry lives in Murfreesboro and represents Tennessee House District 48, which includes a portion of Rutherford County. He can be reached by email at: Rep.Bryan.Terry@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-2180.

Rep. Bryan Terry Works To Improve Healthcare

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

NASHVILLE, JULY 8, 2019– Representative Bryan Terry (R-Murfreesboro) recently sent letters to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on behalf of District 48 and the Tennessee House Health Committee for support of a new proposed federal rule that would help improve the financial situation of Tennessee hospitals.  The rule would adjust the formula for calculating the Medicare Area Wage Index (AWI) which would improve payments to Tennessee hospitals and help stabilize the health care market.

“Because Medicare payments are predicated on the Area Wage Index and the AWI for Tennessee is low, our hospitals, especially our rural hospitals and those located in East Tennessee, are placed at a significant financial disadvantage compared to other states,” explained Terry.  “While medical equipment, supplies, and medications have continued to climb, Tennessee’s AWI has not. Hopefully, CMS will fix this disparity.”

Currently, every county in the State of Tennessee falls below the area wage index. This places Tennessee at a rank that is near the bottom of the reimbursement ranks in the country and has created a financial problem for hospitals in Tennessee.  The relief CMS has proposed in this rule will help keep more Tennessee hospitals from shutting down, and it will help keep healthcare access open for our citizens.

As Chairman of the Health Committee, Terry worked with the Tennessee Hospital Association, members of his committee, and other groups to address this problem.  In his letters, he pointed out that the structural make-up of AWI created a cycle that has led to the downfall of Tennessee’s reimbursement rate over the last 15 years. He emphasized that the proposed rule by CMS, CMS- 1716-P, would allow a beneficial plan to resolve the wage index disparities for hospitals with a wage index value below the 25th percentile, and would check the abuses of the “rural floor” calculation seen in other states.

“Medicare often doesn’t even pay enough to cover the costs to provide a service.  TennCare often pays significantly less than Medicare. This problem has to be addressed if we want to recruit doctors and services that will keep our hospitals afloat,” stated Terry.  “While this rule change won’t solve every problem in health care, it is a necessary step.”

In addition to addressing the AWI, Terry has been actively working on legislation within the House Republican CARE Plan which is aimed at decreasing costs and improving consumer driven care.  He has, also, been working to increase efficiency with TennCare while looking to help Tennessee take advantage of the State Relief and Empowerment Waivers offered by the Trump Administration.

Follow Dr. Terry on Facebook and Twitter.

Bryan Terry: Thanks District 48 Citizens, For Your Overwhelming Support!

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(Nashville, Tenn.) — State Representative Bryan Terry, MD (R-Murfreesboro) thanked the voters of District 48 for their overwhelming support during his successful re-election bid. Terry won by a landslide margin on election night and, also, garnered the highest percentage of votes of any state or federal candidate on the ballot in Rutherford County — including Governor-Elect Bill Lee. 

“My family and I are truly humbled and honored to be re-elected to serve our community during the 111th Tennessee General Assembly,” stated an enthusiastic Dr. Terry. “Our community supports efforts to improve education, health care, safety and jobs, as opposed to the extremist rhetoric and protesting that is divisive. I have worked to be the voice for all citizens of District 48, and I look forward to continuing to serve our incredible community.”

Dr. Terry will be serving his third term in the Tennessee House of Representatives for the area that encompasses the eastern half of Rutherford County and Middle Tennessee State University. As a member of the 110th General Assembly, he served as House Health Subcommittee Chairman and was instrumental in many health care improvements — not only in Rutherford County but across Tennessee.  During the crafting of Governor Haslam’s Tennessee Together plan, Dr. Terry led efforts to address the opioid crisis while working to ensure that legitimate patients were protected from unintended physical and financial consequences of any legislation. 

“My goals with this important initiative were to not only help address the opioid problem plaguing Tennessee, but, also, to ensure patients were able to receive proper treatment, while also protecting their pocketbooks from burdensome expenses,” said Terry. “We know we accomplished a significant part of these goals, but we still have more work ahead, and we are already looking at new solutions to further address this critical issue.”

In addition to the opioid crisis, Terry has worked to decrease prescription costs and also improve patient access.  He was instrumental in removing the gag clause on pharmacists, which previously prevented them from discussing less expensive payment options for prescription drugs. Ultimately, President Trump followed Tennessee’s lead by signing a federal law to prevent these same gag clauses. 

Recently, the Trump Administration and CMS offered states access to State Relief and Empowerment Waivers. These waivers will allow Tennessee the opportunity to revamp the health insurance market by providing patients with greater choice and less expensive plans.

“We have been working to stabilize the health insurance market and help improve access and options for patients.  Unfortunately, restrictions and regulations surrounding the Affordable Care Act, as well as roadblocks put forth by the Obama Administration have hindered our efforts to help our citizens,” stated Terry.  “With the new guidance from the Trump Administration, Tennessee will have the opportunity to address several health care concerns including protecting those with pre-existing conditions while providing more patient centered options.” 

During his tenure, Representative Terry has been known as a proactive advocate for education.  He believes the combination of a new governor and the turnover among House Education Committee members will present some new challenges but, also, exciting new opportunities in order to further improve the system. “Though Tennessee has taken steps forward in education, there are still concerns that need to be addressed including testing.  I look forward to continuing to be an advocate on behalf of our community as we strive to make improvements for our students, parents, and teachers,” stated Terry.

With the 111th General Assembly quickly approaching, Rep. Terry explained that he has already been working on legislation and issues for the upcoming session. “We have made remarkable progress improving Tennessee, but creating new solutions to address vital issues that will impact the future outcomes of our state is an ongoing process. I appreciate the strong partnerships I have with our citizens, local leaders, and my legislative colleagues. All of these play an important role in bringing forth innovative ideas that will move Tennessee from good to great. I am thankful to District 48 for the faith they have placed in me to continue to work for the betterment of all.”

Representative Bryan Terry, MD can be contacted at 615-741-2180 or via email at rep.Bryan.Terry@capitol.tn.gov. 

Rep. Bryan Terry To Host Town Hall On Sept. 4 From 6-8 PM

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Representative Bryan Terry, MD (R-Murfreesboro) will be kicking off the Tennessee general election season with a special “Tuesday with Dr. Terry Meet and Greet Town Hall”.  The event is schedule to be held on Tuesday, September 4th from 6-8 pm at the Rutherford County GOP headquarters at 111 E. Main Street in Murfreesboro.

Rep. Terry, known for his openness and willingness to discuss issues with constituents at local events, at their doors, or on social media, has hosted several community events during his time in office including an education round table, Providers and Politics, and his Empowering Women Event.  He has, also, held several “Tuesday with Dr. Terry” events where he listens to constituents and provides information on legislative issues in an informal setting. He states that this event, though, will provide for an informal meet and greet followed by a more structured town hall setting.

“As a self governance trained elected official, helping constituents understand the issues and have their voice heard at the Capitol is a responsibility that I take to heart,” stated Rep. Terry.  “Regardless of the capacity, it’s opportunities like these that help our community, families, and individuals interact interact and help shape our republic.”

Dr. Terry was recently called a “model public servant” by the Tennessee Legislative Report Card in which he receive a perfect score of 100.  In addition, he has received awards for being a Taxpayer Hero, a Constitution Protector, and he was recognized for his efforts in Faith, Family, Freedom, and Fiscal Responsibility by Latinos for Tennessee.  He has been endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Business, the Tennessee Professional Firefighters Association, and Tennessee Right to Life.

“Elections are about choices.  Whether at the federal, state, or local level, this year, we have a choice of continued economic growth, improvement in jobs and education, and protecting our rights and liberties or people can choose failed liberal policies and reckless ideologies like socialism,” explained Terry.  “I’m offering the first option and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to discuss our community’s shared values and how we, working together, can continue to keep making a positive difference.”

Rep. Bryan Terry is the Republican nominee for District 48 in Tennessee which is the eastern half of Rutherford County.  More information on him and his positions can be found at BryanTerry4TN.com or on Facebook at @Dr.BryanTerry.

Rep Bryan Terry: Updates On Cannabis, Opioids, Landfill, Guns

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Rep. Bryan Terry, MD (District 48)

MURFREESBORO, MARCH 5, 2018, Last Monday, I signed on to the Medical Cannabis Only Act.  And on Tuesday, it passed the first hurdle which was the Criminal Justice Subcommittee.  Every chemical in cannabis is already legal in Tennessee right now. All chemicals except THC are grown at MTSU, and THC is dispensed as Marinol at pharmacies throughout Rutherford County and the state.  So, the chemicals are in the state, but unfortunately, they aren’t necessarily able to be used in an effective medicinal form or be used together. The MCOA would allow the chemicals to be used together and is for OIL ONLY, and not flower or raw plant.  

Overwhelmingly, doctors, pharmacists, and other constituents that speak to me are supportive of having the option of cannabinoids, especially in oil based form.  Even most politicians who aren’t willing to go public or feel that they must vote “no” acknowledge that if they were in a position of need, they would want the option.  Unfortunately, the swamp is still strong with fear mongering, cronyism, or a general lack of knowledge of the issue.

This week, my bills HB 1549, 1550, and 2002 made it through the committee process and will be on the House floor Monday night.  

1549 helps decrease the burden on highly qualified teachers at they proceed from an initial 3 year license to their 6 year license.  It has overwhelming bipartisan support.

1550 will allow Rutherford County to develop it own forensic autopsy center.  As one of the fastest growing counties in the country, the center will help provide a valuable service to our county and surrounding counties.

2002 will clean up our code to allow a newly approved long acting medication to be used to treat opioid addiction.  It will increase compliance, decrease diversion, and decrease relapse rates.

One item that I should bring to everyone’s awareness is that the House passed HB 2370 and I am a co-prime sponsor.

Currently, business or property owners have two options when it comes to firearms.  They must either allow firearm carry permit holders to carry concealed or openly in their business or property, or they must post a sign that denies one to carry a firearm.

Some property owners would like a third option which is that a carry permit holder may carry, but the owners just want it concealed.  HB 2370 will allow that option to occur. The bill increases the liberty and freedoms of both carry permit holders and property owners.

As many folks know, Rutherford County is looking at selling the landfill to Republic.  Currently MiddlePoint has a life expectancy of 6-10 years. If Republic gets the adjoining Rutherford County Landfill and its base footprint, the lifespan of MiddlePoint landfill will most likely be extended an additional 15 years(21-25 years).

Here is an important point that everyone in the community needs to know.  Wet sludge(human waste) has live bacteria, produces gas, and is responsible for much of the odor around the landfill.  Currently, Murfreesboro and Smyrna send wet sludge to MiddlePoint. Based on the original contract, they are allowed to do so.  The landfill in Clarksville is the ONLY other landfill that accepts wet sludge and they were given an exemption due to the flood damage to their drying facility.  Clarksville has until the summer of 2019 to dry their sludge or they lose their permit.

Folks, that means that in 2019, Murfreesboro and Smyrna will be the only municipalities still delivering wet sludge and MiddlePoint will be the only landfill still accepting the wet sludge.  As a community, how is that acceptable?

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: Why I Support The Medical Cannabis Only Act

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Rep. Bryan Terry: Why I'm Supporting The Medical Cannabis Only Act

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

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

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

(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

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Rep. Bryan Terry (District 48)
Rep. Bryan Terry (District 48)

(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.

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 Named “Champion of Prosperity”

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Rep. Bryan Terry Named "Champion of Prosperity"
Rep. Bryan Terry Named “Champion of Prosperity”

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.