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 patients when making such referrals.

The bill aims to enhance continuity of care and promote collaboration between health care practitioners and pharmacies, which is expected to improve medication adherence, streamline drug refill management, and reduce adverse medication-related events. In addition to the new provisions, the bill maintains existing restrictions on referrals and outlines specific conditions under which referrals can be made, ensuring that patient interests remain a priority.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:9-22.5