Florida bill that would have let pharmacists test and treat influenza, strep stalls in committee

In Florida, SB 524—a measure that would have given pharmacists authority to test and treat for influenza or strep infections—was shelved this week in a state Senate committee meeting. The bill would have required pharmacists to undergo 8 hours of training for certification; however, some physicians expressed concern that pharmacists still would not have the medical training to adequately diagnose influenza or any complications a patient might have from a basic test. Suzanne Wise, president of the Florida Pharmacy Association, pointed out that for some individuals without access to a provider, the legislation would allow them to obtain treatment they might not otherwise receive. Pharmacists are "their access point to this care," she said. State Sen. Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg), who sponsored the bill, moved to "temporarily postpone" the measure after several committee members said they would not be able to support it. Brandes said he hopes to bring the legislation back next year.