Bill > LD1687

This bill aims to increase access to HIV prevention medications by expanding the role of pharmacists in prescribing, dispensing, and administering HIV prevention drugs through the MaineCare program. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to create a reimbursement model by January 1, 2027, that allows pharmacists to directly bill and receive payment for HIV prevention services. The legislation mandates that health insurance carriers provide coverage for HIV prevention drugs prescribed by pharmacists, with no out-of-pocket costs for drugs recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force. The bill allows pharmacists to dispense oral HIV prevention medications for up to a 60-day supply or administer a single injectable medication, subject to specific conditions such as HIV testing, patient counseling, and notification of the patient's primary care provider. Additionally, the bill prohibits carriers from imposing overly restrictive requirements on pharmacists and removes prior authorization and step therapy barriers for certain HIV prevention drugs. The legislation also includes appropriations for implementing these changes, with funding allocated from various sources including the General Fund, Federal Expenditures Fund, and Other Special Revenue Funds, totaling $192,824 for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1687&snum=132