Authorizes pharmacists to order, perform and interpret CLIA-waived tests authorized by statewide protocol and prescribe medications, and permits coverage by all health insurance carriers.

Plain-English Summary: RI Pharmacist Test-and-Treat Authority Act

This bill would expand what pharmacists in Rhode Island are allowed to do. Specifically, it would allow pharmacists to order, perform, and interpret certain medical tests — called "CLIA-waived tests" — which are simple, low-risk tests (like rapid strep tests, flu tests, or COVID tests) that can be done quickly without a traditional lab. Based on those test results, pharmacists could also prescribe medications to treat the condition, following guidelines set by a statewide medical protocol. This would essentially allow pharmacists to provide a more complete "test and treat" service directly at the pharmacy counter.

The bill would affect a wide range of Rhode Islanders, particularly those who need quick access to diagnosis and treatment for common, straightforward conditions. Instead of scheduling a doctor's appointment or visiting an urgent care clinic, patients could go to their local pharmacy for testing and, if needed, walk out with a prescription. The bill also requires all health insurance carriers in Rhode Island to cover these pharmacist-provided services, meaning patients would not have to pay entirely out of pocket for this care.

This legislation is primarily aimed at improving access to healthcare, especially for people who face barriers to seeing a doctor quickly — such as those in areas with fewer medical offices, people with limited time off work, or those without a regular primary care provider. The statewide protocol requirement means pharmacists would operate within established medical guidelines rather than making fully independent clinical decisions. The bill has been referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee for further review.