This bill expands the authority of pharmacy technicians and other pharmacy personnel, including pharmacists, pharmacy interns, and externs, to administer drugs and vaccines, specifically allowing them to administer the COVID-19 vaccine. Key amendments to Section 24 of P.L.2003, c.280 (C.45:14-63) include the removal of the certification requirement for pharmacists to administer prescription medications, while still requiring appropriate training as determined by the board. 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 stipulates that for patients under 18, pharmacy technicians must obtain permission from a parent or legal guardian before administering a vaccine. It removes a previous provision that restricted the administration of vaccines to patients under 10 years of age unless prescribed by an authorized prescriber. Furthermore, pharmacy technicians are allowed to administer immunizations under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist, and any immunizations given must be reported to the New Jersey Immunization Information System. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the role of pharmacy personnel in public health, particularly in vaccination efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:14-63