House expands pharmacist prescribing authority over physician objections
HB 2676 passes 95-27, allowing pharmacists to initiate therapy for certain conditions
TOPEKA — The Kansas House voted 95-27 on Thursday to expand pharmacists' scope of practice, allowing them to initiate therapy for certain conditions consistent with their education and training. HB 2676 also allows pharmacists to fill a 90-day emergency supply of noncontrolled prescription drugs when no refills remain.
The bill drew notable opposition from Rep. Ron Bryce, R-Coffeyville, a physician, who said in an explanation of vote that the measure would let pharmacists "diagnose and treat patients — the definition of practicing medicine — without medical school, residency, board exams, or a medical license." Bryce, joined by Rep. John Carmichael, D-Wichita, said, "Blurring that line risks lowering standards and eroding public trust." Supporters argued the bill addresses gaps in healthcare access, particularly in rural communities where physicians are scarce. The measure passed with broad bipartisan support and now heads to the Senate.
The bill sits at the center of a long-running national debate pitting physician groups against pharmacy organizations over who should be able to treat patients. Kansas, like many states, faces a persistent provider shortage in rural areas, giving momentum to scope-of-practice bills.
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