The Pharmacist Prescribing Authority Act amends the Revised Code to expand the role of pharmacists in treating minor health conditions. Key changes include redefining "health care provider" to include advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants, and introducing new sections that empower pharmacists to prescribe medications and drug therapy-related devices for various health conditions, including influenza, COVID-19, and urinary tract infections. The bill also allows pharmacists to administer tuberculosis screening tests and manage drug therapy through consult agreements with healthcare practitioners, while ensuring that patient confidentiality and proper reporting of tuberculosis cases are maintained.

Additionally, the legislation mandates that health insuring corporations and sickness and accident insurers reimburse pharmacists for services rendered under this new authority, provided the patient's insurance policy covers such services. It establishes a framework for consult agreements between pharmacists and practitioners, requiring written documentation of these agreements and regular communication regarding patient care. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of state boards in implementing these provisions and provides liability protections for pharmacists and practitioners involved in these agreements. Overall, the act aims to enhance patient care and improve access to treatment by leveraging the expertise of pharmacists.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 339.78, 339.81, 1751.91, 3923.89, 4729.01, 4729.39