House Bill 224, introduced in the Ohio Legislature on April 7, 2025, aims to expand the prescribing authority of certain healthcare professionals, specifically clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse-midwives, and certified nurse practitioners. The bill seeks to address the growing need for accessible emergency medical treatments, particularly in schools and community settings, by allowing these professionals to prescribe and furnish epinephrine autoinjectors without prior examination of the individual who may require them.

Key provisions of the bill include the ability for qualified nurses to personally furnish epinephrine autoinjectors and issue prescriptions for their use in accordance with existing state regulations. This change is particularly significant given the increasing prevalence of severe allergic reactions among children and the critical need for immediate access to life-saving medications in emergency situations.

The bill has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers and healthcare advocates. Proponents argue that it will enhance public health safety by ensuring that epinephrine is readily available in schools and other public venues, potentially saving lives. However, some opposition has emerged, primarily concerning the implications of allowing prescriptions without a prior examination, raising questions about patient safety and the adequacy of training for those authorized to prescribe.

Economically, the bill could lead to increased healthcare costs if more individuals seek prescriptions for epinephrine autoinjectors. Socially, it reflects a growing recognition of the role that nurse practitioners and midwives play in the healthcare system, particularly in underserved areas where access to physicians may be limited.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for healthcare delivery in Ohio will be closely monitored. If passed, House Bill 224 could significantly alter the landscape of emergency medical care, particularly for children at risk of anaphylaxis, and set a precedent for similar legislative efforts in other states.