MA H4497

Creates a new licensing procedure for specialty pharmacies in Massachusetts that dispense specialty medications, excluding mail service pharmacies from the definition

Requires each specialty pharmacy to designate a pharmacist in charge who must register with the board, maintain good standing with their licensing jurisdiction, and submit annual reports including information on principal managers and drugs dispensed to Massachusetts patients

Prohibits out-of-state pharmacies from prescribing, shipping, or dispensing medications in Massachusetts unless they obtain a specialty license under this new section

Bars insurance carriers from prohibiting any licensed pharmacy from dispensing specialty drugs covered under their pharmaceutical benefits, provided the pharmacy can meet the drug's special handling, administration, and monitoring requirements

Requires carriers to allow any network pharmacy to provide specialty drugs if the pharmacy agrees to the same reimbursement terms and conditions as other specialty pharmacies