Pharmacists; authorize to test for and administer treatment for minor, nonchronic health conditions.

This bill would authorize Mississippi pharmacists to test for and treat specific minor, nonchronic health conditions like the flu, strep throat, urinary tract infections, lice, and certain skin conditions (e.g., ringworm). It defines these conditions as short-term issues typically managed with basic treatments, allowing pharmacists to perform CLIA-waived tests and initiate care without a doctor’s prescription. Pharmacists could also delegate testing tasks to supervised pharmacy interns or technicians and prevent insurance denials for these services if they would be covered when provided by a doctor or nurse. The bill aims to expand pharmacists’ role in accessible primary care for common, low-risk health issues.