The bill amends the Revised Code to expand the authority of pharmacists in Ohio, allowing them to screen, test, and treat certain respiratory health conditions, including influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus. It introduces a new section, 4729.392, which outlines the specific activities pharmacists are authorized to perform, such as conducting screenings, ordering and administering laboratory tests, evaluating results, and providing treatment. Additionally, the bill establishes a statewide written protocol for these activities, which will be developed by the state board of pharmacy, and permits pharmacists to initiate drug therapy and delegate tasks to pharmacy interns and technicians under their supervision.

To ensure pharmacists are compensated fairly for their services, the bill mandates that health insuring corporations and sickness and accident insurers provide payment or reimbursement for the healthcare services they offer, aligning their reimbursement process with that of other healthcare providers. It also modifies the Medicaid program's payment structure to cover services authorized under Chapter 4729 of the Revised Code, including managing drug therapy, conducting screenings, and administering immunizations. Furthermore, the bill repeals several existing sections of the Revised Code that are no longer applicable, streamlining the legal framework surrounding pharmacist services and Medicaid payments.

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