The bill amends existing laws to allow nonprofit, tax-exempt, or governmentally-funded hospitals to hold a licensed pharmacy permit for the retail sale of drugs and medicines. Specifically, it introduces a new definition of "hospital campus" and establishes conditions under which these hospitals can operate retail pharmacies. A nonprofit hospital with fewer than 1,000 employees may hold a pharmacy permit at one location on its campus, while those with 1,000 or more employees may have up to three locations. Additionally, hospitals with multiple campuses can apply for separate pharmacy permits for each campus.

The bill also outlines requirements for hospitals serving as covered entities under the 340B program, allowing them to contract with licensed pharmacies to dispense 340B drugs. It emphasizes the need for a business review and patient assessment to determine the necessity of contract pharmacy services, as well as the maintenance of auditable records to ensure compliance with federal and state laws. The previous prohibition on nonprofit hospitals holding pharmacy permits is removed, allowing for greater access to pharmacy services within these healthcare facilities.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1311 V3 - 3-15-2023 10:03 AM: 17-92-101, 17-92-605
HB 1311: 17-92-101, 17-92-605