House Resolution No. introduced by Representatives Guzman, Hill-Evans, Sanchez, Rivera, and Cepeda-Freytiz on April 22, 2025, directs the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on medication errors and to provide recommendations aimed at reducing these errors and enhancing patient safety. The resolution highlights the serious consequences of medication errors, which can occur at various stages of the medication process, and cites a specific incident involving a patient at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital who suffered adverse effects due to a labeling error by a pharmacy technician. It emphasizes the need for improved reporting mechanisms and oversight, as current state law does not require pharmacists to notify the Pennsylvania Board of Pharmacy about medication errors, potentially limiting the scope of investigations.

The study will encompass various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and pharmacies, and will involve the formation of an advisory committee comprising representatives from health organizations, licensed healthcare professionals, and patient advocacy groups. The resolution also calls for an examination of policies from other states, best practices from stakeholders, and a review of existing Pennsylvania statutes and regulations related to medication administration and error reporting. The Joint State Government Commission is tasked with presenting its findings and recommendations to the House of Representatives within a specified timeframe following the resolution's adoption.