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 adverse effects of the medications.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all pharmacists follow updated guidelines and standards of care approved by the board of pharmacy. It specifies that pharmacists' services for tobacco cessation will be covered by health insurance plans starting January 1, 2027. The bill 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 provide coverage for services within the lawful scope of practice of pharmacists, without requiring supervision or referral from other healthcare providers. It emphasizes the need for adequate participation of pharmacists in health insurance networks and mandates coverage for services outside of the network if necessary services are unavailable. The act will take effect upon passage.