Relative to allowing pharmacists to administer influenza, COVID-19, and other FDA licensed vaccines without explicit approval from the general court.
Impact
The enactment of SB402 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws governing vaccination administration. By removing the requirement for explicit legislative approval, pharmacists can swiftly respond to public health needs and increase the vaccination rate, thereby improving community health outcomes. The bill acknowledges the crucial role that pharmacists play in the healthcare system, particularly in rural or underserved areas where access to healthcare providers may be limited.
Summary
Senate Bill 402 proposes to enable pharmacists in New Hampshire to administer a wider range of vaccines, including influenza and COVID-19, without needing explicit prior approval from the state legislature. This bill seeks to streamline the immunization process by allowing pharmacists, pharmacy interns, and certified pharmacy personnel to provide necessary vaccinations as directed by licensed immunizing pharmacists. The underlying goal is to enhance public health access, particularly in light of ongoing vaccination efforts against COVID-19.
Contention
However, the bill may face contention regarding the adequacy of training and oversight for pharmacists administering vaccines. Critics could raise concerns about the potential for improper administration or lack of comprehensive patient assessment before vaccination. Discussions might also revolve around the balance of responsibilities between pharmacists and healthcare providers, particularly in ensuring that patients receive proper guidance and follow-up care related to vaccinations.
An Act to Expand Access to Vaccines Approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration by Allowing Pharmacists to Prescribe, Dispense and Administer Vaccines and Require Insurance Coverage
Relating to the regulation of pharmacists and the practice of pharmacy, including the administration of a medication and the ordering and administration of an immunization or vaccination by a pharmacist.
Permits licensed pharmacists and nurse practitioners to prescribe and order COVID-19 immunizations; permits physicians to issue non-patient specific orders to pharmacists for COVID-19 immunizations for patients two years of age and older; permits pharmacists to issue patient specific orders for COVID-19 immunizations for patients two years of age and older.
Permits licensed pharmacists and nurse practitioners to prescribe and order COVID-19 immunizations; permits physicians to issue non-patient specific orders to pharmacists for COVID-19 immunizations for patients two years of age and older; permits pharmacists to issue patient specific orders for COVID-19 immunizations for patients two years of age and older.
Amends the definition of the practice of pharmacy to include the administration of all forms of influenza immunizations including COVID-19 to individuals over the age of 3 years pursuant to a valid prescription or prescriber approved protocol.
Relating to the regulation of pharmacists and the practice of pharmacy, including the administration of a medication and the ordering and administration of an immunization or vaccination by a pharmacist.