Texas House Bill HB1409

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 3/30/09
• Voted on by House: 4/9/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/8/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/20/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/23/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the minimum patient age for administration of an influenza vaccination by a pharmacist.

Impact

If enacted, HB1409 will directly affect the practice of pharmacists in Texas by allowing them to administer vaccinations in a more regulated manner, contingent on the established protocol by a physician. This ensures that while pharmacists can provide these essential health services, they do so under the adequate supervision required to minimize risks and to align with best medical practices. The bill aims to enhance public health by potentially increasing the rate of immunization among younger populations through broader access at pharmacies.

Summary

House Bill 1409 proposes amendments to the Occupations Code concerning the minimum patient age for the administration of vaccinations, specifically targeting procedures carried out by pharmacists. The bill emphasizes that any immunization or vaccination provided must be based on protocols reviewed and established by a delegating physician. It stipulates the age requirements and the necessary conditions to ensure that a physician-patient relationship is maintained when dealing with patients under a certain age (14 years). The goal of the bill is to increase access to vaccinations while ensuring oversight by qualified medical professionals.

Contention

While proponents of HB1409 argue that it will facilitate easier access to vaccinations, particularly for children, opponents might raise concerns about the adequacy of pharmacist training and the implications of allowing pharmacies to handle immunizations without direct physician oversight. Critics could argue that the responsibility of ensuring patient safety and proper immunization practices should remain primarily with medical doctors rather than being delegated to pharmacists, whose training does not typically encompass extensive medical supervision.

Last_action

There is no recorded last action or voting history for HB1409 available in the documents.