The proposed bill would update current statutes by granting pharmacists the authority to independently test and treat eligible individuals for specific medical conditions, including influenza, group A streptococcus pharyngitis, and COVID-19. This includes the ability to order, perform, and interpret FDA-authorized and CLIA-waived tests under a statewide written protocol developed by the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. The bill also establishes an Independent Testing and Treatment Advisory Committee to assist in protocol development and mandates that pharmacists maintain professional liability insurance when initiating treatment. Importantly, it clarifies that pharmacists cannot initiate treatment using opioids or order tests for minors without parental consent.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for pharmacists regarding the initiation of treatment and testing for minors, as well as the necessity to inform patients that testing and treatment are conducted without physician oversight. It also outlines specific procedures for pharmacists to initiate HIV pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis, ensuring adherence to CDC guidelines and proper documentation. The bill removes previous provisions regarding compensation for committee members and requires annual reviews of statewide protocols, ultimately aiming to enhance the role of pharmacists in patient care while ensuring compliance with medical standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-1979.04
House Engrossed Version: 32-1979.04, 32-1979.05, 32-1979.06