SPONSOR: Christofanelli
COMMITTEE ACTION: Voted "Do Pass" by the Standing Committee on General Laws by a vote of 16 to 0. Voted "Do Pass" by the Standing Committee on Rules- Legislative Oversight by a vote of 10 to 0.
This bill allows a pharmacist to dispense medication for HIV preexposure prophylaxis and HIV postexposure prophylaxis without a prescription. The pharmacist must complete a training program.
For medication for HIV preexposure prophylaxis, the pharmacist must document that the patient tested negative for HIV, the patient does not report any signs or symptoms of acute HIV infection, and the patient is not taking any contraindicated medications. The pharmacist can provide a 30-day supply to the patient once every two years.
For medication for HIV postexposure prophylaxis, the pharmacist must determine that the exposure occurred within the previous 72 hours, the patient meets the clinical guidelines for the medication, and the patient is willing to undergo HIV testing.
The pharmacist must provide counseling about the use of the medication (which the patient cannot waive), advise the patient that he or she must see a primary care physician to receive additional prescriptions, and notify the patient's primary care provider or provide a list of providers to the patient.
This bill is similar to HCS HB 2304 (2020).
PROPONENTS: Supporters say that the bill helps reduce HIV infection rates in Missouri by providing better access to HIV prevention medication. The bill will particularly help rural communities who may not have access to an HIV specialist. Pharmacists have training and experience in drug interactions, so they will still be able to determine if medication is proper.
Testifying for the bill were Representative Christofanelli; Arnie Dienoff; Ernie-Paul Barrette; Planned Parenthood Advocates In Missouri; Mallory Schwartz, NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri; Missouri Family Health Council, Inc.; PROMO; Mallory Rusch, Empower Missouri; Missouri Pharmacy Association, Missouri Retailers Association; Jon Martin, Vivent Health; and Kendall MartÃnez- Wright.
OPPONENTS: Those who oppose the bill say that physicians are necessary to screen patients to determine what and if medication is appropriate.
Testifying against the bill was the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons.
OTHERS: Others testifying on the bill say the current language may be an issue because physicians often determine if medication is appropriate at all, regardless of drug interactions. Currently, pharmacists do not prescribe drugs and this proposal could lead to adverse side effects for patients, such as liver and kidney issues.
Testifying on the bill was the Missouri State Medical Association.
Written testimony has been submitted for this bill. The full written testimony can be found under Testimony on the bill page on the House website.
Statutes affected: