The bill amends the Revised Code to expand the role of pharmacists in Ohio by authorizing them to screen, test, and treat certain respiratory health conditions. It mandates that health insuring corporations and sickness and accident insurers provide payment or reimbursement to pharmacists for the health care services they offer, aligning their reimbursement process with that of other health care providers. This includes activities such as managing drug therapy, conducting screenings, administering laboratory tests, and treating specific health conditions, as outlined in the new section 4729.392 of the Revised Code. The bill also updates the definitions and scope of practice for pharmacists, emphasizing their equal treatment in terms of reimbursement.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that allow pharmacists to conduct screenings, order and administer laboratory tests, and provide treatment for conditions like influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus. It tasks the state board of pharmacy with establishing a statewide written protocol for these activities and permits pharmacists to initiate drug therapy and delegate tasks to pharmacy interns and technicians. The Medicaid program's payment structure is also modified to ensure pharmacists are compensated for their services, and several existing sections of the Revised Code that conflict with these new provisions are repealed to streamline pharmacist services within the Medicaid framework.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 1751.91, 3923.89, 4729.01, 5164.14, 5167.051