This bill aims to remove the existing prohibition on nonprofit, tax-exempt, or governmentally-funded hospitals from holding a licensed pharmacy permit for the retail sale of drugs. It amends Arkansas Code to define "hospital campus" and establishes provisions for the issuance of retail pharmacy permits to eligible hospitals that are licensed by the Department of Health and employ a licensed pharmacist-in-charge. The bill allows these hospitals to obtain one retail pharmacy permit for each hospital pharmaceutical service and an additional permit for every 100 beds, while also permitting them to operate outpatient infusion facilities and freestanding retail pharmacies.

Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program to inform eligible patients of their freedom to choose where to obtain pharmaceutical supplies and services upon discharge. It mandates the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy to report monthly on various pharmacy permit applications and approvals. Importantly, the bill repeals the previous law that made it unlawful for certain hospitals to hold a licensed pharmacy permit, thereby facilitating greater access to pharmacy services in these healthcare facilities.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB58 V2 - 1-30-2025 11:25 AM: 17-92-101, 17-92-403, 17-92-405
Act 52: 17-92-101, 17-92-403, 17-92-405