The proposed bill would significantly expand the scope of practice for pharmacists by allowing them to independently order, perform, and interpret certain FDA-authorized tests, as well as initiate treatment for specific medical conditions such as influenza and COVID-19. This change would be codified in a new section of the Arizona Revised Statutes, 32-1979.04, which mandates the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy to develop a statewide written protocol addressing documentation, patient screening, and treatment instructions. Additionally, the bill establishes an Independent Testing and Treatment Advisory Committee to assist in protocol development, while also clarifying that pharmacists cannot initiate opioid treatments or order tests for minors without parental consent.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for pharmacies to inform patients that testing and treatment are conducted by pharmacists without physician oversight, and that patients should consult a primary care provider if symptoms persist. It modifies the age limit for treatment initiation by pharmacists from 6 to 10 years and removes HIV prophylaxis from the list of conditions that pharmacists can treat independently. The Advisory Committee is set to be repealed on January 1, 2028, and the bill emphasizes the importance of communication with primary care providers, requiring pharmacists to notify them of any treatments initiated and maintain records for seven years.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-1979.04