Bill > H2449

This bill aims to improve access to prescription medication labeling for individuals with print reading challenges, such as blindness, low vision, dyslexia, or lack of English proficiency. The key provisions include: 1. Requiring state-funded cross-disability agencies and organizations to collaborate with pharmacists across Massachusetts to establish best practices for providing accessible prescription labeling formats, including large print, Braille, and audio formats. 2. Mandating pharmacies to implement pilot programs within 120 days and expand the accessible labeling to all pharmacies within one year. 3. Exempting small pharmacies with fewer than 15 employees from the requirement until they reach a certain level of profitability. 4. Imposing penalties on cross-disability agencies that fail to collaborate with pharmacists to establish the accessible labeling programs. 5. Requiring state-funded rehabilitation centers and special needs schools to acquire and demonstrate the available technology for accessible prescription labeling. 6. Directing the cross-disability agencies to hire staff and work with pharmacists to develop more cost-effective technologies, such as smartphone applications and innovative prescription vial designs, to further improve accessible prescription labeling.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/H2449