Bill > SB5513

This bill expands the scope of practice for pharmacists in Washington state, aiming to improve healthcare access and chronic disease management. Starting December 1, 2026, pharmacists will be authorized to prescribe a wide range of medications and treatments, including immunizations, opioid antagonists, epinephrine autoinjectors, antihistamines, tobacco cessation products, HIV prevention medications, tuberculin products, hormonal contraception, travel-related medications, and certain drugs for minor, self-limiting conditions. The bill recognizes pharmacists as highly educated healthcare professionals who can help address provider shortages, particularly in rural and underserved communities. The expanded prescribing authority is subject to specific guidelines, such as not requiring new diagnoses, being for minor conditions, and potentially involving team-based practices with shared medical records. The new prescribing capabilities are set to expire on January 1, 2030, allowing for evaluation of the program's effectiveness. The legislation also modifies existing pharmacy practice definitions to explicitly include diagnosing conditions and prescribing drugs and devices, subject to commission rules and guidelines.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5513&Year=2025&Initiative=false