The bill amends the Public Health Code to enhance the reporting and management of diseases, infections, and disabilities, placing new responsibilities on the Department of Health and pharmacists. It requires the Department to maintain an annually reviewed list of reportable diseases and allows for the establishment of rules regarding their reporting and control. A significant addition is the requirement for pharmacists to report occurrences of diseases, infections, or disabilities, aligning their responsibilities with those of other licensed health professionals. The bill also permits pharmacists to administer qualified laboratory tests for conditions like COVID-19 and influenza, detailing the necessary training and reporting protocols.

In addition to public health provisions, the bill modifies pharmacy laws to expand the roles of pharmacists in prescribing and dispensing medications. It allows pharmacists to issue prescriptions for specific conditions, such as streptococcal tonsillitis and tobacco cessation, contingent upon conducting qualified laboratory tests. The bill also mandates pharmacies to disclose prescription drug prices to consumers before dispensing, ensuring transparency and encouraging the consideration of lower-cost alternatives. Furthermore, it outlines the required information on receipts provided to purchasers and expands the grounds for disciplinary actions against pharmacists, thereby reinforcing regulatory compliance while enhancing patient care.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.5111