Expansion of Pharmacist Scope of Practice
Key Points
Pharmacy graduates earn the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, and many complete post-graduate training and/or certification in specialty areas. We fall short compared to other states when assessing the legislation surrounding pharmacist responsibilities in the state of Indiana.
What is the issue?
Mismatching Legislation – Our legislation has not fully caught up with the training and education required of pharmacists. This has been shown through legislation passed in other states with examples listed below.
Test and Treat – Certain states including California, Illinois, and Michigan have passed bills allowing pharmacists to test and treat patients for certain diseases (COVID-19, HIV, and urinary tract infections) during the 2023 session. Problem – There is currently no legislation allowing Indiana pharmacists to do this which limits patient’s access to these necessary medications.
Vaccine Authority – Connecticut, Delaware, and Michigan to name a few, have all passed similar legislature allowing pharmacists to administer any vaccine during the 2023 session. Problem – The current Indiana Code only allows pharmacists to administer vaccines from a specified list which limits the access to essential vaccines to patients who need them.
With an expanded scope of practice, pharmacists are providing more and more clinical services to patients. Ensuring legislation matches pharmacists’ scope improves patient outcomes by increasing patient access to crucial healthcare.
Next Steps for Indiana
Pass legislation that supports pharmacists' ability to provide services they are trained to do in order to increase access to necessary healthcare services for Indiana residents.