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HB 1150

Health Occupations - Pharmacists - Minor Conditions and HIV Prevention and Treatment (Rapid Testing and Preventive Care Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 12 co-sponsors

Maryland bill grants pharmacists independent authority to diagnose/treat minor conditions and provide HIV prevention/treatment without physician prescriptions, expanding access but raising clinical supervision concerns.

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Bill Summary · HB 1150

Legislative bill overview

HB 1150 expands the scope of practice for Maryland pharmacists to independently diagnose and treat minor health conditions and provide HIV prevention and treatment services. The bill grants pharmacists prescriptive authority beyond their current limitations, allowing them to initiate certain medications without requiring a physician's prescription for these specific categories.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects healthcare access and cost, particularly for underserved populations who may lack regular physician contact. It could reduce emergency room visits for minor ailments and expand access to HIV prevention drugs (like PrEP) and treatment in communities with pharmacist availability. Conversely, it raises questions about supervision, liability, and the adequacy of pharmacy training for clinical decision-making in these areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice boundaries: Medical boards and physician groups may argue pharmacists lack sufficient diagnostic training, while pharmacy advocates contend pharmacists receive robust clinical education for minor conditions
  • Patient safety and liability: Disagreement over whether independent pharmacist treatment increases adverse events or improves outcomes for minor conditions and HIV management
  • Definition of "minor conditions": Legislative language must clearly define which conditions qualify, as vague definitions could create enforcement and liability issues
  • Insurance and reimbursement: Uncertainty about whether insurance will cover pharmacist-initiated treatment, potentially creating gaps in access despite expanded authority

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

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