Michigan House Bill HB5108

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/22/25
• Refer: 10/22/25

Caption

Health occupations: pharmacists; pharmacist scope of practice; modify. Amends secs. 5111, 17703, 17707, 17708, 17724a, 17744, 17744a, 17751, 17757 & 17763 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.5111 et seq.) & adds sec. 17744h.

Impact

The proposed amendments are anticipated to significantly enhance the role of pharmacists in patient care, allowing them to perform qualified laboratory tests and prescribe medications based on the outcomes of these tests. This change is expected to improve immediate healthcare access for patients, reduce the burdens on primary care providers, and streamline the response to public health threats. Moreover, the legislation aligns with National trends advocating for the maximization of healthcare workforce efficiencies by utilizing pharmacists more effectively.

Summary

House Bill 5108 proposes amendments to the Public Health Code of Michigan aimed at expanding the scope of practice for pharmacists. Specifically, it modifies several sections of the code concerning the reporting and management of communicable diseases, as well as the authority of pharmacists to prescribe certain medications following clinical assessments. The bill emphasizes the importance of pharmacists in providing timely care and addresses the growing need for accessible healthcare solutions, especially in light of public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Contention

However, debates surrounding this bill include concerns about the training and qualifications of pharmacists in performing diagnostic tests and issuing prescriptions. Critics argue that while expanding pharmacists' roles can improve healthcare access, there are fears regarding patient safety and the risk of inappropriate medication use without proper medical oversight. The various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and patient advocacy groups, appear divided over whether the benefits outweigh the risks associated with these proposed changes.