This bill amends the General Laws to establish a framework for pharmacists to prescribe and dispense FDA-approved tobacco cessation therapies. It introduces a new section, 5-19.1-39, which outlines the qualifications for pharmacists to prescribe these therapies, including the completion of tobacco cessation education approved by the state board of pharmacy and the requirement to refer high-risk patients to their primary care providers. The bill defines a "qualified patient" as someone who is at least 18 years old, willing to participate in a structured cessation program, and educated on the potential side effects of the medications.

Additionally, the bill mandates that pharmacists follow updated clinical guidelines and provide necessary follow-up care to patients. It specifies that notification of patient screening, prescription records, and follow-up care plans must be provided to the patient's primary care provider within five business days following the prescribing of a tobacco cessation product.

Furthermore, the bill ensures that services provided by pharmacists will be covered by health insurance plans starting January 1, 2027. It adds new sections to various chapters of the General Laws, including 27-18, 27-19, 27-20, and 27-41, which require health insurance carriers to include coverage for pharmacists' services without requiring supervision, signature, or referral from other healthcare providers. The legislation aims to enhance access to tobacco cessation therapies and integrate pharmacists more fully into the healthcare system. The act will take effect upon passage.