This bill authorizes pharmacists in Arkansas to dispense HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) under a statewide protocol. It amends the definition of the "practice of pharmacy" to include these medications and establishes specific requirements for pharmacists when initiating therapy. These requirements include completing an approved training program on HIV prophylaxis, ensuring patients do not waive consultation, and dispensing a minimum of a thirty-day supply of PrEP, contingent upon the patient being HIV-negative and meeting other clinical criteria. Additionally, pharmacists are required to provide counseling on the ongoing use of these medications and document services in a shared patient record system.

The bill also includes provisions that prohibit pharmacy benefits managers from restricting pharmacists' ability to dispense HIV prophylaxis and mandates that health benefit plans cannot require prior authorization for antiretroviral drugs necessary for HIV prevention. It defines HIV and AIDS within the context of the law and ensures that patients have access to necessary medications without unnecessary barriers. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance access to HIV prevention methods through pharmacist involvement while ensuring proper training and patient care standards are maintained.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1007 Original - 11-18-2022 04:27 PM: 17-92-101(17), 17-92-101, 17-92-115, 23-92-506(b)
Old version HB1007 V2 - 2-14-2023 10:33 AM: 17-92-101(17), 17-92-101, 17-92-115, 23-92-506(b)
Old version HB1007 V3 - 3-8-2023 10:03 AM: 17-92-101(17), 17-92-101, 17-92-115, 23-92-506(b)
HB 1007: 17-92-101(17), 17-92-101, 17-92-115, 23-92-506(b)
Act 314: 17-92-101(17), 17-92-101, 17-92-115, 23-92-506(b)