SUPPORT SB 878: Improve Patient Access to Care

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Email Subject:

Dear [Your Elected Official],

Dear Senator,
As a Missouri pharmacist, I am writing to ask for your support for SB 878, legislation that helps modernize pharmacy practice and improve patient access to care.
Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals in our communities, particularly in rural areas where healthcare resources may be limited. SB 878 allows pharmacists to provide additional patient care services under rules established by the Board of Pharmacy and Board of Healing Arts.
One important part of the bill clarifies the use of CLIA-waived tests in pharmacies. These are simple, rapid tests—such as those used for influenza, strep, and COVID-19—that can safely be performed in healthcare settings with a low risk of incorrect results. In pharmacies, these tests typically involve a quick swab and provide results within minutes, allowing pharmacists to help patients get answers quickly and guide them toward appropriate treatment or referral when necessary.
This legislation is not intended to replace physicians. Pharmacists want to continue working collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time. SB 878 simply helps ensure patients can access timely care and appropriate guidance when they need it.
In many cases, allowing pharmacists to provide these services can also help reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and healthcare costs by giving patients faster access to basic testing, guidance, and care in their local community.
The bill also improves patient access to certain medical devices such as test strips, pen needles, and spacers, which help patients manage conditions like diabetes and asthma more effectively.
Thank you for your time and for considering support of SB 878. I would be happy to answer any questions or share how these services benefit patients in my community.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your City & State]

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Summary

Missouri pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare providers in their communities—especially in rural areas where healthcare options may be limited. SB 878 helps modernize pharmacy practice so pharmacists can better serve patients and improve access to timely care. This legislation allows pharmacists to provide additional patient care services under rules established by the Board of Pharmacy and Board of Healing Arts. It also clarifies the use of CLIA-waived tests in pharmacies—simple, rapid tests such as those used for flu, strep, and COVID-19 that provide results within minutes and help patients quickly receive guidance on treatment or referral. Importantly, this legislation is not about replacing physicians. Pharmacists want to continue working collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time. The bill also improves patient access to certain medical devices, including test strips, pen needles, and spacers, helping patients better manage chronic conditions.

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