Menu
2025 Session

Budget Amendments - HB1600 (Member Request)

View Budget Item
View Budget Item amendments

Chief Patron: Willett
Virginia Telehealth Network Feasibility Study on Pharmacy Care Hubs

Item 279 #5h

Item 279 #5h

First Year - FY2025 Second Year - FY2026
Health and Human Resources
Department of Health FY2025 $0 FY2026 $150,000 GF

Language
Page 348, line 35, strike "$31,479,983" and insert "$31,629,983".

Page 353, after line 32, insert:

"Out of this appropriation, $150,000 the second year from the general fund shall be provided to the Virginia Telehealth Network to conduct a feasibility study and develop a plan to implement a pilot program for Pharmacy Care Hubs in Virginia.  The study shall be conducted in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Service to ensure the availability of Pharmacy Care hub services for Medicaid beneficiaries.  The Virginia Telehealth Network shall report on the findings from the feasibility study and the pilot program plan to the Chairs of the House Appropriations and Senate Finance and Appropriations, and the Joint Commission on Health Care by November 1, 2025.



Explanation

(This amendment adds $150,000 in fiscal year 2026 from the general fund for the Virginia Telehealth Network to conduct a feasibility study and develop a plan to implement a pilot program for Pharmacy Care Hubs in Virginia. Pharmacy Care Hubs serve as telehealth access points in pharmacies, where reliable internet service is available to provide access to telehealth services and pharmacy staff are available during telehealth visits to help patients use the technology. Pharmacy staff may also perform various tests as directed by a physician, administer vaccines, or provide therapeutic injections during the telehealth visit. If medication is prescribed during the visit, the pharmacist may dispense the medication prior to the end of the appointment. This is a recommendation of the Joint Commission on Health Care.)