Rhode Island House Bill H5633

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/25
• Refer: 2/26/25
• Report Pass: 4/1/25
• Engrossed: 4/10/25
• Refer: 5/2/25
• Report Pass: 5/27/25
• Enrolled: 6/18/25

Caption

Allows a pharmacist to dispense a one-time refill for certain medications for continuation of therapy to patients under certain circumstances.

Impact

If enacted, H5633 would represent a significant change to state laws governing pharmacy practice. It specifically allows pharmacists to act in situations where a patient cannot obtain a timely refill authorization, thus empowering them to make professional judgments in the interest of patient health. Notably, the bill excludes Schedule II-V drugs, ensuring that only those medications essential for life or chronic condition management are included. These modifications would enhance pharmacists' roles within the healthcare system, particularly in managing prescriptions under pressing circumstances.

Summary

House Bill 5633 introduces provisions that would enable pharmacists in Rhode Island to dispense a one-time refill of certain medications for patients who may not be able to obtain timely authorization from their prescriber. The bill is designed to ensure continuity of therapy, particularly for medications that are critical for managing chronic conditions or maintaining health. This legislative proposal reflects an effort to improve patient access to necessary medications and mitigate potential health risks related to interrupted therapy.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits of the legislation, there may be points of contention regarding the responsibilities placed on pharmacists and the implications for prescriber-patient relationships. Critics may argue that allowing pharmacists to issue refills without direct prescriber input might undermine the prescriber's authority or lead to patients receiving medications without adequate consultation. There may also be concerns regarding the tracking of such refills and ensuring that patients do not misuse the provision. As the bill progresses, these discussions will be critical in shaping the final version of the legislation.