FINAL BILL REPORT
SSB 5268
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
C 85 L 15
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Concerning refilling eye drop prescriptions.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Health Care (originally sponsored by Senators Parlette, Kohl-Welles, Hatfield, Angel and Fraser).
Senate Committee on Health Care
House Committee on Health Care & Wellness
Background: Health care professionals with prescription authority may prescribe topical ophthalmic products to treat a variety of medical conditions, including glaucoma. Many insurers have structured the design of their drug benefits to align with the frequency at which prescriptions can be filled. With oral drugs, a 30-day supply is limited to the number of pills provided. However, with topical opthalmic products, patients may accidently put multiple drops in their eyes, or miss the eye, which would result in the prescription running out before 30 days have passed.
Summary: Pharmacists may refill a prescription for topical ophthalmic products at 70 percent of the predicted days of use. This applies to original prescriptions and refills. In order to refill the prescription early, the prescription must indicate the number of refills permitted and the early refill must not exceed that number. Early refills are permitted only one time.
Votes on Final Passage:
Senate | 49 | 0 | |
House | 97 | 0 |
Effective: | July 24, 2015 |