This week’s Crain’s Detroit Business article “It's about to get easier to become a pharmacist in Michigan. Not everyone is happy.” discusses the Michigan Board of Pharmacy vote to amend the Pharmacy General Rules to eliminate the requirement to pass the MI Jurisprudence exam for all applicants for licensure.
The rigorous jurisprudence exam is the requirement for pharmacists to demonstrate competence in federal and state laws that regulate the drug manufacturing and distribution system. The potential removal of this test comes at a time when the profession seeks to attain a broader scope of practice and the ability to prescribe medications and achieve provider status with Medicare and other third-party payers.
"Pharmacists are looking to expand their scope. It seems somewhat antithetical to eliminate one of the competency exams and start deregulating the profession while also pushing for greater autonomy," said Alan Rogalski, partner at law firm Warner Norcross + Judd in Detroit and former practicing pharmacist. "We need the greater oversight over the profession to demonstrate that pharmacists should be considered at the top of the health care food chain."
According to the article, pharmacists are one of the more prosecuted health care professions for violating laws. Still, experts are torn on whether eliminating the exam will jeopardize industry safety at a time when pharmacists are seeking more autonomy in the health care industry. The Crain’s article is comprehensive and includes many perspectives from industry professionals.
Crain’s Detroit Business subscribers can read the full article here.
Alan T. Rogalski R.Ph. is a former licensed clinical pharmacist and co-chair of Warner’s Health Care Industry Group which includes more than two-dozen attorneys practicing in nine offices across Michigan.
About Warner
By providing discerning and proactive legal advice, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP builds a better partnership with our clients. One of Michigan’s largest law firms, we’re focused on providing the best legal solutions and exceptional client service to organizations throughout the world. Connect with us on wnj.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook.
# # #
