Special to Lake Okeechobee News
TALLAHASSEE — Governor Ron DeSantis signed into Florida law Friday, April26, House Bill 159, HIV Infection Prevention Drugs, by Representative Gallop Franklin and Senator Alexis Calatayud. The new statute expands access to life-saving human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatments and care through Florida’s network of 6,000 retail pharmacies.
“Thank you, Governor Ron DeSantis, for your support for this life-saving legislation,” said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “Our certified Florida pharmacists are dedicated to community health, wellness and HIV prevention efforts. HB 159 will expand vital access to HIV screenings and treatments for Floridians at pharmacies statewide. We are grateful for the leadership of Representative Gallop Franklin, Senator Alexis Calatayud, and Senator Shevrin Jones on this measure.”
The bipartisan legislation was named the John W. Rheay Act in memory of the late brother of Representative Dana Trabulsy.
HB 159 allows Florida pharmacists to screen for HIV and order and dispense life-saving HIV prevention treatments under certain conditions.
The Florida Board of Pharmacy must now adopt rules and criteria approved by the Florida Board of Medicine and the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine to certify pharmacists to screen for HIV and order and dispense treatments.
Under a written collaborative practice agreement with a physician, the measure directs certified pharmacists to order and dispense HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP), which is administered after an individual is exposed to HIV.
Certified pharmacists must provide patients with written information advising follow-up care and adhere to an approved access-to-care plan for patients who do not have access to regular primary care.
With over 120,000 individuals in Florida living with HIV, and an estimated one in ten unaware of their status, broadened access to treatments is imperative.
Florida’s 6,000 retail pharmacies play an integral role in Florida’s health care system by offering extended hours and secure, convenient access points, particularly in vulnerable communities and underserved areas.
