S.413 would permit the Board of Medical Examiners- upon recommendation of the Joint Pharmacist Administered Vaccines Committee- to authorize pharmacists to administer select vaccines. The vaccines which may be administered in this fashion would be determined by the committee and board. The bill would also permit the influenza vaccine to be administered to anyone over 12 years old pursuant to protocol issued by the board. Finally, the bill would allow pharmacists who completed a special course of training to administer any vaccine approved by the CDC pursuant to a prescription or written order.

Proper health reforms should seek to increase healthcare consumer choice and remove restrictions which inhibit the market from supplying demanded medical services. Permitting more professionals in the medical field to administer vaccinations would achieve both these goals thereby saving doctors and patients both time and money.

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.