The bill amends K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 65-16,131 to expand the scope of practice for pharmacists in Kansas, allowing them to initiate therapy for certain health conditions based on their education, training, and experience. Specifically, pharmacists can initiate therapy for conditions that do not require a new diagnosis, are minor and self-limiting, have a waived diagnostic test, or are deemed an emergency by the pharmacist. The bill also outlines that pharmacists must independently assess whether their actions are consistent with the law and accepted standards of care.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for pharmacists to initiate therapy under statewide protocols for specific conditions such as influenza, streptococcal pharyngitis, and urinary tract infections. The collaborative drug therapy management advisory committee is tasked with creating these protocols, which will include guidelines on medications, pharmacist qualifications, documentation, and communication with patients' primary care providers. The existing section of the law is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the Kansas register.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-16