1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to you as a constituent in your district to express my strong opposition to House Bill 73 (HB 73). This bill, if enacted, would have detrimental effects on patient safety, increase healthcare expenditures, and undermine the critical role pharmacists play in our healthcare system. I respectfully request that you oppose HB 73 and any attempt to incorporate similar language into other bills. Pharmacists are integral members of the healthcare team, dedicated to ensuring the safe and effective use of medications for their patients. Through rigorous education and training, pharmacists utilize their knowledge, experience, and professional judgment to review medications, assess potential interactions, and safeguard patients from harmful effects. HB 73 threatens to undermine this vital role by mandating pharmacists to fill prescriptions regardless of their professional judgment. This bill not only disregards pharmacists' expertise but also jeopardizes patient safety. For instance, in cases where medications interact, pharmacists must have the autonomy to intervene and prevent potentially life-threatening consequences. HB 73 imposes unnecessary administrative burdens and could lead to increased healthcare expenditures as patients may require additional medical care due to medication-related complications. This bill contradicts established rules and guidelines set forth by the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy, which already empower pharmacists to make informed decisions based on their professional judgment. We have seen firsthand the positive impact of pharmacist interventions, with thousands of potentially fatal medication errors prevented each year and substantial cost savings realized for patients. It is imperative that we preserve the pharmacist's role as the last line of defense in ensuring medication safety. Therefore, I urge you to oppose HB 73 and any attempt to incorporate similar language into other bills. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your continued support for safe and effective healthcare practices.