ANNAPOLIS, MD, and WASHINGTON, DC—The Maryland Pharmacists Association (MPhA), Maryland Pharmacy Coalition (MPC), and American Pharmacists Association (APhA) are proud to announce that Maryland pharmacists will soon have expanded ability to bill for certain health care services.
On May 3, 2023, Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed into law House Bill (HB) 1151/Senate Bill 678. This important new law, which takes effect in October 2023, will allow for the reimbursement of services provided by pharmacists practicing within their scope of practice by private and public health plans in the state. Recognizing pharmacists as providers and reimbursing them for the care they provide has been a top priority of the profession for years. Maryland joins the growing list of states expanding public and private health plan programs that are increasing access to pharmacist-provided health care services.
“Several years ago, MPhA established our vision to be the voice in representing all Maryland pharmacists as innovative and respected members of the health care team focused on the health and well-being of Maryland residents. The passage of this legislation is a WIN–WIN! Payment for services supports improved patient outcomes because pharmacists will have the resources to maximize their expertise. Being recognized as a health care provider and paid for services brings an increased sense of job satisfaction and well-being because we know what our community can do and the impact we have. We are thrilled that legislators and payors see it as well!” said Aliyah Horton, FASAE, CAE, MPhA Executive Director.
“Thank you to the many Maryland pharmacists who advocated to bring this legislation across the finish line. APhA is proud to support the strong leadership of MPhA in advocating to ensure patients in Maryland have greater access to the invaluable care their local pharmacist can provide,” said Michael Baxter, APhA Acting Head of Government Affairs.
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