Modernization of Pharmacy Practice Act and Rules
Key Points
- The current Pharmacy Practice Act and Rules were introduced in 1977 that define the roles of pharmacists.
- The IPA’s goal for this legislative priority is to modernize this act to reflect current pharmacy settings and remove unnecessary restrictions to pharmacy practice.
- Idaho, Alaska, and Iowa have already moved forward in updating this area of the legislature with a standard of care framework to ensure that is up-to-date and reflective of pharmacist expertise and capabilities.
What is the issue?
Outdated Rules – The Pharmacy Practice Act was introduced around 50 years ago and has not been updated since. Since this time, pharmacist education and training have evolved with pharmacists now earning a doctorate. Problem – This outdated Act does not reflect current practice in a typical pharmacy.
Limitation of Pharmacist Role– The prescriptive and outdated nature of the current Pharmacy Practice Act limits pharmacists’ ability to use the full scope of their education and training to provide Indiana residents with necessary and beneficial healthcare services. Problem – Pharmacists and pharmacy students may choose to leave Indiana and go to a state with more freedom to practice to the highest degree. Additionally, this could serve as a barrier to care if we are unable to maximize the potential of pharmacists to aid in providing healthcare to Hoosiers.
Impact of Legislation
Modernizing this act ensures that Indiana pharmacists have the ability to practice as they are trained to do so and positively contribute to the overall health of Indiana residents.
Next Steps for Indiana
Pass legislation to modernize this act in order to allow pharmacists, who serve as patients’ most frequent touchpoint to healthcare, to help contribute to better healthcare for Indiana residents.