The Attorney General Kris Kobach (R) recently issued an opinion on the validity of certain prescriptions issued by mid-level prescribers, specifically physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (APRNs). The opinion concludes that the Kansas Pharmacy Act requires PAs and APRNs to hold a Kansas license from the Kansas Board of Healing Arts and the Kansas Board of Nursing, respectively, to prescribe medication in Kansas. This differs from the Board of Pharmacy’s previous understanding and enforcement. Without the appropriate Kansas licensure, mid-level practitioners are not authorized to prescribe medication in the state. Pharmacists should review the opinion, consult legal counsel, if necessary, and ensure dispensing practices under the Kansas Pharmacy Act align with these requirements.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.