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Committee OKs pharmacists giving childhood vaccines under written protocol with parental consent
Summary
The committee adopted an amendment requiring written parental consent and passed HB 12‑78 to allow pharmacists to vaccinate children ages 7–17 under a physician‑signed protocol; pediatricians warned the change could reduce preventive office visits in some cases.
Senator Caldwell presented an amendment and the bill to let pharmacists vaccinate children 7–17 under a general written protocol signed by a physician, while the amendment adopted by the committee requires written consent from a parent or legal guardian before vaccination.
Chad Rogers, Arkansas chapter state president for the American Academy of Pediatrics, praised pharmacists’ role in increasing access but said removing individualized prescriptions could mean some children ‘‘would never even come to their pediatric or family office to get preventive care.’’ He said same‑day access and physician recommendation often reinforce immunization. Rogers warned some pharmacies might not participate in Vaccines for Children because the program’s administrative burden makes it unprofitable to serve Medicaid and VFC patients.
John Vincent of the Arkansas Pharmacists Association said pharmacies in 16 counties already enroll in Vaccines for Children and that greater operational flexibility would improve service in access‑challenged areas. The sponsor and commenters noted vaccines administered outside physician offices must be reported to the statewide immunization registry.
The committee adopted the parental‑consent amendment and passed HB 12‑78 as amended. Committee action was recorded as a voice vote; the chair announced the ayes had it.
