This bill amends section 2 of P.L.1989, c.19 (C.45:9-22.5) to expand the exceptions under which health care practitioners can refer patients to health care services in which they or their immediate family have a significant beneficial interest. Specifically, it allows practitioners to refer patients to pharmacies if the practitioner, their immediate family, or a combination of both had a significant beneficial interest in the pharmacy and their application for a permit to operate the pharmacy was approved prior to the effective date of this section. The bill also requires that practitioners disclose their significant beneficial interest to the patient when making such referrals.

The amendments include the addition of specific conditions under which referrals can be made, including the requirement for written disclosure forms to be provided to patients and posted in the practitioner's office. The bill aims to facilitate continuity of care and enhance collaboration between health care practitioners and pharmacies, ultimately improving medication adherence and reducing adverse medication-related events.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:9-22.5