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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2015 - 2016
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | February 18, 2015 11:46 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Maria P. Donatucci |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Insurance Coverage for Immunizations Administered by Pharmacist |
| In the near future, I plan to re-introduce legislation that would require coverage for immunizations administered at a pharmacy by a pharmacist. In 2002, the General Assembly amended the Pharmacy Act of 1961 to allow pharmacists to administer medications, biologicals and immunizations. The 2009 widespread outbreak of the H1N1 virus saw pharmacists on the frontlines providing vaccinations to a multitude of at-risk individuals including the elderly and children. This option provides both convenience and accessibility to consumers, while eliminating the risk of exposure to other ailments in a physician’s waiting room. However, it can be more costly to the consumer because, under current Pennsylvania law, health insurers are not required to cover immunizations administered by pharmacists. My bill amends the Act of May 17, 1921 (P.L. 682, No. 284), otherwise known as the Insurance Company Act of 1921, to require insurers to provide coverage for immunizations administered at a pharmacy by a pharmacist. By extending insurance coverage for vaccinations administered by pharmacists, we can guarantee continued convenience and accessibility to consumers, while ensuring a cost effective option. Please consider joining me in sponsoring this important legislation. |
Introduced as HB822