This bill amends existing legislation to expand the authority of pharmacy technicians, pharmacists, and pharmacy interns and externs in administering drugs and vaccines, specifically allowing them to administer COVID-19 vaccines. Key changes include the removal of the certification requirement for pharmacists to administer prescription medications, while still requiring appropriate training as determined by the relevant boards. Additionally, pharmacy technicians are now permitted to administer drugs to patients aged 18 and older, and they can also administer vaccines to patients aged five and older, provided they have the necessary education and qualifications.

The bill also introduces several important provisions regarding the administration of vaccines to minors. It stipulates that pharmacy technicians cannot administer vaccines to patients under 18 without parental or guardian consent and removes the previous requirement for a prescription for patients under 10 years of age. Furthermore, it allows pharmacy technicians to administer immunizations under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist and mandates that any immunization given must be reported to the New Jersey Immunization Information System. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the role of pharmacy professionals in public health, particularly in the context of vaccination efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:14-63