The bill amends the Occupations Code to expand the scope of practice for pharmacists regarding the administration and ordering of immunizations and vaccinations. Specifically, it allows pharmacists to order or administer immunizations or vaccinations to patients who are at least three years old, and to those younger than three if referred by a physician under a written protocol. The bill also updates the definition of the "practice of pharmacy" to include these new responsibilities and specifies that the board shall set conditions for pharmacists to follow when administering these immunizations or vaccinations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that pharmacists notify the prescribing physician within 14 days after administering an immunization or vaccination, and it establishes minimum education and training standards for pharmacists in this area, including training from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The bill also clarifies that the authority to administer immunizations or vaccinations cannot be delegated to certified pharmacy technicians. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance public health by enabling pharmacists to play a more active role in immunization efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 551.003, Occupations Code 554.004, Occupations Code 554.052 (Occupations Code 551, Occupations Code 554)