Legislators returned to Baton Rouge earlier this month for the third session this year to consider Gov. Jeff Landry’s (R) tax overhaul package.
Also in Louisiana, the Department of Health issued Informational Bulletin 24-42 updating the immunization fee schedules.
Also in Louisiana, the Board of Pharmacy continues to make progress on the proposed rule changes expanding the eligibility criteria for obtaining a pharmacy technician candidate registration by providing alternatives to a board-approved, nationally accredited pharmacy technician training program. The proposed rule changes remove the definition of Training Program and instead define Pharmacy Technician Educator, which includes a board-approved, nationally accredited training program, a Louisiana Department of Education program with a pharmacy technician career path and a Louisiana licensed pharmacist providing training in a permitted pharmacy. The Board submitted the second summary report to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health & Welfare.
Also in Louisiana, after the August public hearing on Automated Medication Systems (AMS), the Board submitted the second summary report to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health & Welfare.
Also in Louisiana, since five of the Board members’ terms expired on June 30, 2024, Gov. Jeff Landry (R) appointed Andy Soileau to replace Blake P. Pitre, who had served 42 years on the Board, and Butch Ray to replace Rock LeBas. The Governor also reappointed pharmacist Robert Cloud, Kevin LaGrange and consumer member Don Resweber.
Also in Louisiana, the Department of Health (LDH), in partnership with the Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DPSC), submitted an application to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for an 1115 demonstration waiver to improve access to critical pre- and post-release services for Medicaid-eligible individuals who are incarcerated. This new waiver would allow Louisiana Medicaid to provide approved substance use treatment services, case management and a 30-day supply of all prescription medications to eligible individuals.
Finally in Louisiana, the Board of Pharmacy will meet on November 19-20, 2024; new officers and committee chairs will be chosen during this meeting.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.