Five things to know:
1. The two bills filed in Texas would let physicians sell noncontrolled substances at their offices, such as antibiotics or prescription ibuprofen.
2. The practice of dispensing drugs right from a physician’s office is illegal in Texas and three other states. Even in states that allow the practice, it is carefully regulated. For example, in New Jersey, physicians must have a special permit from the state board of pharmacy.
3. The Texas Pharmacy Association opposes the bills, arguing that pharmacists are the medication experts and allowing a physician to dispense the medication could place a patient’s health and safety at risk.
4. “The threat to the practice of pharmacy, I don’t see it,” said Tom Schnorr, PharmD, who works at Austin Compounding Pharmacy, but notes that lawmakers should address several areas before implementing a law. “My biggest concern is proper labeling, packaging, and the infamous making sure there’s follow-up and counseling,” he said.
5. Physicians say they would be able to offer patients convenience and savings.
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