Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0482

Introduced
2/26/25  
Refer
2/26/25  
Report Pass
6/3/25  
Engrossed
6/5/25  
Engrossed
6/18/25  

Caption

Amends the types of products which pharmacists may prescribe as substitute drugs or products to include "devices and supplies" and "therapeutically equivalent drugs and pharmaceuticals".

Impact

The intended impact of S0482 is significant, as it aims to enhance the options available to pharmacists in providing more affordable medication alternatives. By encouraging the substitution of less expensive therapeutic equivalents, it could lead to reduced healthcare costs for patients. The bill also underscores the state's commitment to embracing modern healthcare practices by integrating technological devices into the prescription process, ultimately improving patient care and medication adherence.

Summary

S0482, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, proposes an amendment to the Rhode Island Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics Act. The bill seeks to expand the types of products that pharmacists may substitute for prescribed drugs to include 'devices and supplies' as well as 'therapeutically equivalent drugs and pharmaceuticals.' This aims to facilitate cost-effective treatment options for patients and improve access to essential medications and devices throughout the state. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, allowing time for necessary adjustments within the healthcare framework.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around S0482 appears to be supportive among healthcare providers, particularly pharmacists, who believe that the bill will empower them to make more cost-effective choices for patients. However, there may be concerns among prescribers regarding how these substitutions will be managed and whether they could potentially lead to confusion or inconsistency in patient care. Discussions within legislative committees indicate a recognition of the bill's potential benefits balanced against the need for adequate oversight and guidelines.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding S0482 is the balance between increasing pharmacist autonomy in drug dispensing and ensuring patient safety. While the expansion of substitution options could provide tangible benefits, there are apprehensions regarding the standardization of therapeutic equivalence, particularly when it involves biological products and devices. Additionally, ensuring that all stakeholders in the healthcare system are adequately informed about substitutions is crucial to avoid potential complications in patient treatment plans.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H8032

Amends tax law on renewable energy products to exempt certain additional products from sales tax including battery energy storage system equipment, if supplied by a manufacturer of solar photovoltaic equipment.

RI S0585

Pharmacies

RI H7160

Makes it a felony to price gouge prescriptions or pharmaceuticals in time of a shortage.

RI S2617

Adds a new section which sets forth conditions for pharmacists to prescribe tobacco cessation/drug therapies, programs approved by the state board of pharmacy. The cessation therapies would be covered by all health insurance carriers on or after 1/1/25.

RI H7041

Requires prescription drug manufacturers to file a detailed, updated list of each pharmaceutical sales representative engaged by the manufacturer and to pay an annual fee for each name on list.

RI H7445

Adds a new section which sets forth conditions for pharmacists to prescribe tobacco cessation/drug therapies, programs approved by the state board of pharmacy. The cessation therapies would be covered by all health insurance carriers on or after 1/1/25.

RI H5111

General Regulatory Provisions -- Price Gouging Of Prescription Drugs Prohibited

RI H7623

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2025.

RI S2614

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2025.

RI H7255

Requires every individual or group health insurance contract effective on or after January 1, 2025, to provide coverage to the insured and the insured's spouse and dependents for all FDA-approved contraceptive drugs, devices and other products.

Similar Bills

RI H5855

Amends the types of products which pharmacists may prescribe as substitute drugs or products to include "devices and supplies" and "therapeutically equivalent drugs and pharmaceuticals."

DE SJR7

Directing The State Employee Benefits Committee And The Secretary Of Human Resources To Engage With Independent Consultants And Other Supply Chain Tactics For Cost Containment Of Prescription Drugs For State Employees And Retirees Insurance Programs.

KY HB100

AN ACT relating to birth certificates.

CT HB06672

An Act Concerning Endometriosis.

RI H7446

Substitutes the current lists of controlled substances in the general laws with the current version of title 21 of the code of federal regulations.

RI S2820

Substitutes the current lists of controlled substances in the general laws with the current version of title 21 of the code of federal regulations.

AK HB226

Pharmacies/pharmacists/benefits Managers

MO HB117

Modifies provisions relating to controlled substances