The bill amends the Occupations Code to expand the scope of practice for pharmacists in Texas, specifically regarding the administration and ordering of immunizations and vaccinations. It defines the "practice of pharmacy" to include the ability of pharmacists to order or administer immunizations or vaccinations to patients who are at least three years old, and under certain conditions, to younger patients referred by a physician. The bill also updates the conditions under which pharmacists may administer medications and specifies that they must notify the prescribing physician within 14 days of administering an immunization or vaccination.

Additionally, the bill establishes new education and training requirements for pharmacists who administer immunizations, including training from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and basic life support training. It clarifies that a pharmacist's authority to administer immunizations cannot be delegated to a certified pharmacy technician. The changes aim to enhance access to immunizations and vaccinations while ensuring that pharmacists are adequately trained and that proper communication with physicians is maintained.

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