Assembly OKs Bill To Expand Pharmacists’ Role in Calif.

On Wednesday, the Assembly unanimously voted to approve a bill (SB 493) that would expand California pharmacists' scope of practice to include ordering certain laboratory tests and prescribing smoking-cessation drugs. Supporters of the bill-- such as pharmacy schools and Blue Shield of California -- say the measure would allow pharmacists to better use their training and help curb health care costs. The bill now returns to the state Senate for a final vote.

• "Bill Would Expand Role of Pharmacists in Calif." (AP/Sacramento Bee, 9/11).