Licensed pharmacists in Michigan may soon be able to dispense prescription drugs through remote pharmacies if a bill passed in the Michigan Senate becomes law, according to The Detroit News.
The proposed bill aims to provide Michigan residents living in rural areas improved access to prescriptions.
Under the proposal, pharmacists could dispense drugs through up to two remote pharmacies.The remote pharmacies would be allowed in areas without an existing pharmacy within 10 miles.
The legislation, backed by Cardinal Health, allows up to 225 prescriptions to be filled per day at the remote locations. A licensed pharmacist would oversee facility remotely by video conferencing,ensure it is staffed appropriately, consult with patients digitally and verify the accuracy of each prescription before it is dispensed.
The Detroit News added that if any component of the telepharmacy system is malfunctioning and there is not a licensed pharmacist on the premises, a remote pharmacy would have to temporarily close to the public.
Supporters of the legislation say rural areas need better access to prescriptions. Critics of the legislation fear the measure could increase illegal drug diversions and fuel the opioid crisis in the state.