NACDS is applauding four new laws that will enhance Arkansans’ access to pharmacist-provided healthcare services
“We commend Gov. Hutchinson and the Arkansas state legislature for their strong leadership in advancing legislation which greatly increases patient access to healthcare services provided by highly trained and educated pharmacists and their staff teams,” said NACDS President & CEO Steven C. Anderson. “Nearly 500 member pharmacies are located throughout the State of Arkansas – each providing easy access to various healthcare services in underserved, rural and urban communities. Throughout the pandemic, community pharmacies and pharmacists have helped patients maintain critical access to the quality care they need and deserve, and Arkansas’ new legislation will help expand these crucial access points during COVID-19 and beyond.”
Act 408: On March 22, Gov. Hutchinson also signed into law Act 408 – legislation sponsored by State Rep. Aaron Pilkington (R) which allows pharmacists (who have completed proper training defined by the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy) to initiate therapy and administer or dispense oral contraceptives.