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H 1091

An Act relative to pharmacists as healthcare providers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Christine Barber

H 1091 expands Massachusetts pharmacists' healthcare authority, enabling broader clinical services beyond dispensing while raising questions about scope boundaries and liability accountability.

Hearing rescheduled to 04/29/2025 from 10:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-2 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 1091

Legislative bill overview

H 1091 seeks to expand the scope of practice for pharmacists in Massachusetts by formally recognizing them as healthcare providers. The bill would grant pharmacists greater authority to perform clinical services, potentially including medication therapy management, immunizations, and other patient care functions beyond traditional dispensing.

Why is this important

This legislation could improve patient access to preventive care and medication management services, particularly in underserved areas where pharmacists are more accessible than physicians. However, it also raises questions about healthcare oversight, liability, insurance coverage, and whether expanded pharmacist duties might conflict with or duplicate existing medical professional roles.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice boundaries: Unclear how far pharmacist authority extends and where physician oversight requirements begin, potentially creating gray areas in clinical decision-making
  • Liability and accountability: Questions about malpractice insurance, professional liability, and who bears responsibility for adverse outcomes under the expanded scope
  • Insurance and reimbursement: Whether health insurers will cover pharmacist-provided services and at what rates, affecting both access and healthcare costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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