Michigan House Bill HB6143

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/14/24
• Refer: 11/14/24

Caption

Health occupations: pharmacists; availability of prescription readers; require. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding sec. 17756a.

Impact

The proposed legislation requires pharmacies to supply prescription readers to visually impaired customers for the duration of their prescriptions. This proactive approach seeks not only to foster inclusivity but to fundamentally change the interaction these individuals have with pharmacy services. By making pharmacies more accommodating, HB6143 aims to improve patient safety and medication adherence among those who face challenges in reading standard prescription labels.

Summary

House Bill 6143 aims to enhance accessibility in pharmacies for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The bill amends the existing Public Health Code (1978 PA 368) by introducing section 17756a, mandating that pharmacies notify customers about the availability of prescription readers upon request. This reader is designed to audibly convey the information present on drug labels, thus ensuring that individuals with visual impairments have access to critical information about their prescriptions.

Contention

While the bill is designed to improve accessibility, it may raise concerns regarding its implementation and potential costs for pharmacies. Some stakeholders may question the requirements and costs associated with ensuring that labels are compatible with the prescription readers and how this will be regulated. Additionally, the language in the provision allows the board to create rules for implementation, raising the possibility of varied interpretations and applications across different pharmacy settings.