The proposed bill, SB 119, seeks to enhance Medicaid pharmaceutical services by allowing pharmacists to dispense brand name drugs to Medicaid beneficiaries when these drugs are included on the Department of Health and Human Services' preferred drug list. This amendment aims to improve access to necessary medications and facilitate rebate agreements with manufacturers, potentially lowering costs for the Medicaid program. Additionally, the bill introduces protocols for dispensing Ivermectin without a prior prescription, contingent upon adherence to a standing order from a licensed healthcare provider, which must include specific patient screening and documentation requirements. The bill also removes the prior authorization requirement for generic drugs unless specified by the drug utilization review board, thereby streamlining the dispensing process.

Key provisions of the bill include protections for pharmacists and healthcare providers against disciplinary actions related to the standing orders for Ivermectin, as well as a mandate for pharmacists to provide patients with information sheets on potential adverse effects and the importance of follow-up care. The fiscal impact is projected to yield significant savings for the Medicaid program, with estimated net savings of $1.1 million in FY 2026, $3.4 million in FY 2027, and $4.5 million in FY 2028, as increased rebate revenue from brand name drugs offsets initial higher costs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 126-A:3
As Amended by the House: 126-A:3