“Test and Treat” at the Pharmacy: What’s Allowed Under Illinois Law

February 18, 2025

When the General Assembly approved Illinois’ budget in the spring of 2024, a provision was unexpectedly “tucked inside” the Medicaid omnibus bill, which the governor signed. Unfortunately, that add-on expanded the scope of practice for pharmacists.

This provision, which ISMS opposed, permits pharmacists to provide in-pharmacy tests for certain conditions and then dispense medication as necessary to treat the patient if a positive test occurs. The conditions covered under the legislation include COVID-19, the flu, strep, RSV and head lice (adult).

The expanded scope of practice was offered as a trade-off to the business community due to an unrelated change to tax law that negatively impacts some businesses.

ISMS has developed an infographic showing which conditions pharmacists can test and treat. It also reinforces that pharmacists are limited in what they can offer, and that medical care is best provided by physicians.