NY A11256

Adds licensed pharmacists to the definition of "qualified health care professionals" who may complete waived clinical laboratory tests under public health law.

Exempts pharmacists from clinical laboratory licensing requirements when performing waived tests as an adjunct to patient treatment, consistent with federal and state law.

Authorizes the Department of Health Commissioner to establish a list of CLIA-waived tests that pharmacists may perform, including opioids, influenza A/B, strep A, hepatitis C, HIV, and blood glucose testing.

Requires the Commissioner to establish protocols between health care practitioners and pharmacists for specific tests as appropriate.

Takes effect immediately, with education law amendments expiring on the same date as the underlying statutory provision.