Delaware pharmacists may prescribe some medicines independently under limits

A Delaware-licensed pharmacist may prescribe independently in the listed situations. This applies to pharmacists licensed under Delaware law. The authority covers over-the-counter products, collaborative agreements, opioid antagonists, and certain drugs or devices used for qualifying conditions. For those drugs and devices, the condition cannot require a new diagnosis, must be minor and generally self-limiting, or must have a test that can guide diagnosis or treatment. Pharmacists may not prescribe controlled substances except as allowed for opioid use disorder treatment. Board rules must support care records, communication with primary care providers, and continuity of care for patients without a provider or contact information. The Act takes effect immediately. The subchapter must be implemented by the earlier of one year after enactment or the Board of Pharmacy’s notice that final regulations are in place.

A pharmacist exercising independent prescribing authority may prescribe FDA-approved medicines for opioid use disorder under a standing order from the Division of Public Health. This applies to pharmacists licensed under Delaware law who exercise independent prescribing authority. The medicines may include controlled substances if they are FDA-approved for treating opioid use disorder. The Act takes effect immediately. The subchapter must be implemented by the earlier of one year after enactment or the Board of Pharmacy’s notice that final regulations are in place.

A pharmacist and the insurance carrier that covered the claim must notify the Board in writing of a covered malpractice claim. The duty applies to pharmacists practicing under this chapter and the insurance carrier that covered the claim. The claim must have been settled or decided by a final judgment. Each notice must be filed within 30 days after the settlement or final judgment.