Bill > H0407

This bill, called the "Connecting to Care Act," expands the roles of pharmacists in administering certain medications, specifically long-acting antipsychotic medications and medications for treating opiate addiction. The legislation allows pharmacists to administer these medications by injection, but only under specific conditions: they must act at the direction of a physician, work within an established protocol, practice in a facility that ensures patient privacy and proper medical waste disposal, and complete an 8-hour specialized continuing education course. The bill amends existing Florida statutes to include pharmacists among the healthcare professionals who can deliver medication-assisted treatments in rehabilitation settings, requiring that each injection be prescribed separately by a physician. Pharmacists must complete a specific educational course offered by professional medical and pharmaceutical associations, which will be part of their required continuing professional education. The new provisions aim to increase access to important behavioral health and addiction treatment medications by enabling pharmacists to play a more direct role in their administration. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, giving healthcare providers and institutions time to prepare for the expanded pharmacist responsibilities.

Health and Social Services

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/407