Bill > S0449

This bill amends South Carolina law to establish collaborative practice agreements (CPAs) between pharmacists and physicians, which are written agreements that allow pharmacists to provide expanded medication management services for specific patients under a physician's supervision. The bill defines CPAs as formal arrangements between licensed, actively practicing pharmacists and physicians within the state, enabling pharmacists to conduct patient monitoring, education, and assessments in support of treatment goals established by physicians. To ensure patient safety and continuity of care, the agreements require either shared electronic medical records or a HIPAA-compliant method of securely sharing patient information. The bill mandates that the State Board of Pharmacy and the State Board of Medical Examiners develop regulations governing these agreements, and the CPAs cannot be implemented until those regulations are in effect. By authorizing these collaborative practice agreements, the legislation aims to enhance patient care by allowing pharmacists to take a more active role in managing medication and supporting physician-directed treatment plans. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0449&session=126&summary=B