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Thursday, February 27, 2014

Lawyers warn that California Law Allowing Pharmacists to perform some medical services could put patients' health at risk and affect medical malpractice law

Debate Continues Over Calif. Law To Expand Role of Pharmacists


Some physician groups are raising concerns about a new California law that gives pharmacists more responsibilities, arguing that expanded scopes of practices could negatively affect patient safety, HealthyCal reports.
The law is aimed at addressing California's physician shortage (Richard, HealthyCal, 2/11).

Background

Only 16 of the California's 58 counties have the supply of physicians recommended by the federal government.
In addition, the Association of American Medical Colleges says that nearly 30% of California's doctors are nearing retirement age.
The California Legislature in September 2013 approved a bill (SB 493), by Sen. Ed Hernandez (D-West Covina), to expand the scope of practice for pharmacists to help boost access to health care (California Healthline, 9/17/13).
Once California State Board of Pharmacy protocols are approved, the law will allow pharmacists in the state to perform certain medical services, such as providing routine vaccinations and certain prescription drugs for travelers.

Law Draws National Attention

According to HealthyCal, the California law has drawn national attention.
Frank Ciesla, a New Jersey health care attorney, warned that treating pharmacists as primary care providers could put patients' health at risk and affect medical malpractice law.
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