Pharmacist Statewide Protocol for Testing and Initiation of Therapy for Suspected Influenza
(March 17, 2023) – The Kansas Board of Pharmacy's March newsletter announced the adoption of a protocol for testing and initiation of therapy for suspected influenza in adult patients, as well as for patients under 18 years of age by The Collaborative Drug Therapy Management Advisory Committee. During the 2022 legislative session, the Kansas Legislature adopted K.S.A. 65-16,131, which authorizes the committee to adopt a statewide protocol for testing and initiation of therapy for patients presenting with influenza, streptococcal pharyngitis and urinary tract infection. The committee recently completed the influenza protocol, which is now available on the Board website for review and participation. To participate, pharmacists must complete the following:
- Complete the training and obtain the necessary credentials
- Review and Sign the Protocol:
- Maintain a copy of the Protocol for 10 years at each location where it is used by the pharmacist. (Copies do not need to be sent to the Board of Pharmacy office.)
The Board of Pharmacy has published answers to frequently asked questions about the influenza protocol and will update the protocol documents with additional information as necessary. Participating pharmacists are required to exercise the standard of care in addition to following the protocol in providing services.
--Karen Braman