NY A08596

Licensed pharmacists may initiate treatment for COVID-19, influenza, and Group A streptococcal pharyngitis upon a positive test result, following a statewide protocol developed by the Department of Health.

The Department of Health protocol must address patient safety, record keeping, referrals to primary care providers, case reporting, and procedures for referrals when patients require additional treatment or experience adverse reactions.

Pharmacists must inquire whether patients have a primary care provider and maintain an updated list of local primary care providers by zip code to share with patients who lack one.

The Department of Health must create and maintain a searchable online list of primary care providers by zip code, identifying those with Patient Centered Medical Home recognition and those serving Medicaid, low-income, uninsured, and disabled populations.

Pharmacists must retain test and treatment records and report results to the patient's physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner unless the patient directs otherwise.

The act takes effect immediately and expires April 1, 2026.