Health Occupations - Pharmacists - Minor Conditions and HIV Prevention and Treatment

SB 506 allows pharmacists in Maryland to prescribe, administer, and dispense certain medications for minor conditions and HIV prevention/treatment, directly affecting patients seeking these services. Pharmacists can now treat specific minor conditions (like cold sores, strep throat, lice, and urinary infections) under statewide protocols established by the Maryland Department of Health, without requiring a new diagnosis. The bill also enables pharmacists to prescribe HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) medications after performing or interpreting HIV tests, replacing the previous nPEP Standing Order Program. All activities must follow protocols that align with federal guidelines and U.S. FDA-approved drug labeling.