Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB849

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/22/23
• Refer: 12/22/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Therapeutic interchange for drug products prescribed to counteract anaphylaxis.

Impact

The bill potentially alters state laws by modifying existing pharmacy regulations regarding drug prescriptions and substitutions. It aims to facilitate quicker access to necessary treatments for patients experiencing anaphylactic reactions by allowing pharmacists to exercise their professional judgment in selecting alternative medications. This change would require that pharmacists follow certain protocols to inform patients and ensure that their substitutions do not compromise patient safety or efficacy, thereby placing greater responsibility on pharmacy practices.

Summary

Assembly Bill 849 introduces provisions that enable pharmacists to substitute a prescribed drug product intended to counteract anaphylaxis with another drug product that has a substantially equivalent therapeutic effect, even if it is not categorized as a drug product equivalent. This substitution can occur provided specific conditions are met, ensuring that consumer safety and insurance compliance are prioritized. The intent behind the bill is to enhance patient care, allowing for flexibility in emergency situations where a timely and effective treatment is necessary.

Contention

Some points of contention may arise regarding the safety and implications of allowing pharmacists to make therapeutic substitutions without explicit prior authorization from the prescribing practitioner. Concerns may also focus on how this rule might affect relationships between healthcare providers and pharmacists, and whether it might lead to confusion among patients about their treatments. Additionally, there might be discussions on the adequacy of the guidelines set for informing patients and how these changes could either improve or complicate the patient care process.