In the past, pharmacists could practice in any state — no matter where they got their license. But many states have aimed to change that rule, and Kentucky may be next. The Kentucky Board of Pharmacy is currently considering new rules for pharmacists from out of state who want to practice in Kentucky. Among the proposed rules is a requirement for all out-of-state pharmacists who “engage in the practice of the profession of pharmacy for a Kentucky resident” to hold an active Kentucky pharmacist license. The rule aims to ensure that all pharmacists practicing in the state meet the same requirements and complete the same training. The Regulation Committee of the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy is currently researching and reviewing the rule.

HB 219 was passed and signed by Governor Andy Beshear during the 2021 LegislativeSession, regulating the sale and disposal of hypodermic syringes. Under HB 219, pharmacies will no longer be required to obtain or record identification of a person purchasing hypodermic syringes. Instead, they will be able to sell hypodermic syringes to all patients, given that they meet certain state protocols. The law goes into effect onJune 29, 2021.

HB 48 has been signed into law, expanding reimbursement for pharmacist-conducted services. It requires insurers to reimburse a pharmacist for a service or procedure at a rate no less than that provided to other nonphysician practitioners. It levels the playing field and ensures that pharmacists are getting fair reimbursement for their valuable and accessible clinical services in Kentucky.