HB 2097 has passed both Chambers and is on its way to Governor Northam for signature. The bill, sponsored by Del. Sam Rasoul (D), is a continuation of the pharmacy protocol bill that NACDS, VACDS, and VpHA jointly championed and passed last year that was enacted in January. HB 2097 would further expand pharmacists’ ability to initiate testing and/or treatment for certain conditions including HIV and Tuberculosis under the protocol. It also would allow pharmacists to dispense over-the-counter drugs, devices, controlled paraphernalia, and other supplies and equipment covered by the patient’s health carrier when the patient’s out-of-pocket cost is lower than the out-of-pocket cost to purchase an over-the-counter equivalent of the same. The measure requires the Board of Pharmacy, in collaboration with the Board of Medicine and the Department of Health, to establish protocols for these services by November 1, 2021.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.