H712 - PREP Act/Pharmacists Summary

• Authorizes immunizing pharmacists to administer seven specific vaccines to persons at least 18 years old under written protocols: pneumococcal, herpes zoster, hepatitis B, meningococcal, tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, human papillomavirus, and hepatitis A vaccines.

• Allows immunizing pharmacists to administer influenza and COVID-19 vaccines to persons at least 7 years old under written protocols, and to persons 6 years or older with a prescription order following physical examination.

• Permits pharmacy technicians and pharmacy interns supervised by immunizing pharmacists to administer authorized vaccines if they complete an approved practical training program, maintain current cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification, and complete at least 2 hours of annual immunization-related continuing education.

• Requires parental consent from a parent or legal guardian before administering vaccines to patients under 18 years old, and mandates informing patients and guardians of the importance of well-child visits with pediatricians or primary care providers.

• Directs the North Carolina Medical Board and Board of Pharmacy joint subcommittee to adopt rules governing vaccine administration by pharmacy technicians, with pharmacy professionals authorized to administer new Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices-recommended vaccines pending regulatory adoption.