By Matthew Holloway |
Arizona state Rep. Chris Lopez (R-LD16) received the Arizona Retailers Association’s 2026 Legislator of the Year Award for his work on legislation authorizing pharmacists to test for and treat certain common illnesses.
The association presented the award on Oct. 21. In a press release, the Arizona House cited Lopez’s work on healthcare access and support for Arizona businesses.
Lopez introduced the pharmacy proposal as House Bill 2444. The policy became law through Senate Bill 1713 after receiving bipartisan legislative support and the governor’s signature in June.
“People shouldn’t have to miss work or drive across the county just to get treated for the flu or strep throat,” Lopez said. “This law gives families a faster, more affordable option at their local pharmacy while keeping important patient safeguards in place. I’m proud we got it passed, and I appreciate the Arizona Retailers Association recognizing that work.”
The law, authorizes pharmacists to independently order, perform, and interpret qualifying tests under a statewide written protocol approved by the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy.
Pharmacists may initiate treatment for eligible patients with test results indicating influenza, strep throat, COVID-19, or other coronavirus respiratory illnesses. Patients must be at least 12 years old or meet the treatment’s authorized minimum age, whichever is higher.
The protocol must address screening, medical history, eligibility exclusions, treatment instructions, training, follow-up care, and referrals. Pharmacists must obtain written parental or guardian consent before independently testing, screening, or treating a minor. The law does not require pharmacists to offer the services.
The House described the measure as intended to expand access in rural communities where patients may otherwise need to travel for treatment.
Lopez said after the legilsation’s passage, “In rural Arizona, a routine infection can mean missing work, driving an hour or more, and paying urgent care or emergency room prices because there is no closer option. This law allows trained pharmacists to provide fast, appropriate treatment under strict statewide protocols. It gives families a safe, affordable option close to home while requiring a referral when a patient needs a higher level of care.”
The House’s announcement at the time also outlined requirements for communicating with patients’ existing healthcare providers: “Pharmacists must make a reasonable effort to identify a patient’s primary care provider and notify the provider within 72 hours after treatment begins. The provider must be notified within 48 hours of any reported or observed adverse reaction.”
The legislation also prohibits pharmacists from independently initiating opioid treatment.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
