Requires emergency action plans for delivery of oxygen to patient residences during public health emergency.
Impact
The bill requires that the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs establish regulations that detail the procedures pharmacies and providers need to adopt. This includes being prepared to respond effectively to patient inquiries regarding the delivery of oxygen. By stipulating these requirements, the bill seeks to ensure availability and responsiveness to patient needs, which is crucial in maintaining health standards during emergency situations.
Summary
Senate Bill S1246, introduced in New Jersey, mandates that pharmacies and other providers of oxygen or oxygen delivery systems develop emergency action plans to ensure the continued delivery of oxygen to patients' residences during public health emergencies. This measure aims to enhance patient safety and accessibility to essential medical supplies, particularly during crises that could disrupt regular operations, such as pandemics or natural disasters.
Contention
While supporters advocate that such a plan is necessary to protect vulnerable populations who rely on oxygen for their health and wellbeing, potential critics may argue about additional regulatory burdens on pharmacies. Balancing the need for preparedness with operational capabilities will be crucial for the successful implementation of the bill. Additionally, the consultation requirement with health officials implies a collaborative approach but may also raise concerns regarding the speed of rule adoption during urgent crises.
Requires a medical equipment service agency that has supplied oxygen or an oxygen delivery system to a patient to notify the appropriate fire department or company serving the municipality in which the patient resides of the name, address, and age of the patient and the existence of the oxygen or oxygen delivery system at the patient's residence; provides for informed consent; requires notice to the fire department of removal of such equipment.
Provides for licensure of emergency medical responders and emergency medical technicians and certification of mobility assistance vehicle operators; revises requirements for delivery of emergency medical and patient transportation services.
Adds new sections that set forth conditions for pharmacists to prescribe tobacco cessation drug therapies, including education approved by state board of pharmacy. The cessation therapies to be covered by all health insurance carriers on or after 1/1/26.
Adds new sections that set forth conditions for pharmacists to prescribe tobacco cessation drug therapies, including education approved by state board of pharmacy. The cessation therapies to be covered by all health insurance carriers on or after 1/1/26.