A practical step toward faster care in Ohio Image By Rachael Carl Key Points The Florida Senate approved a bill requiring certain able-bodied Medicaid recipients to complete at least 80 hours of work per month, targeting individuals without caregiving responsibilities Supporters say the policy promotes self-sufficiency and reduces dependence on government programs, while critics warn it could limit access to healthcare and increase administrative complexity The measure reflects broader national efforts to tie public benefits to work, even though Florida is not required to adopt such rules under federal Medicaid law This is a lightly edited excerpt of testimony recently provided to the Ohio State Senate Health Committee. SB 230 is a practical, patient-focused step to improve access to timely care across Ohio. Respiratory illnesses are most effectively managed when identified early. Enabling pharmacists to conduct CLIA-waived tests and initiate therapy under a statewide protocol established by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy ensures patients can receive safe, evidence-maintaining, appropriate guardrails. Pharmacies are among the most accessible healthcare settings. Nearly 90% of Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy. In Ohio, Walmart and Sam’s Club operate 169 pharmacies serving urban, suburban and rural communities, many with evening and weekend hours when other providers may be unavailable. For working families, seniors, and rural residents, pharmacists are often the most convenient point of care. By allowing pharmacists to initiate care for routine respiratory conditions within clearly defined protocols, SB 230 helps reduce unnecessary strain on primary care offices, urgent care centers and emergency departments — freeing those providers to focus on more complex cases. Importantly, the bill also ensures insurer and Medicaid coverage of these pharmacist services, supporting patient affordability and meaningful access. Pharmacists are highly trained, trusted members of Ohio’s healthcare team. SB 230 modernizes Ohio law to reflect how care is delivered today, enhancing patient outcomes. Rachael Carl is the Director of Public and Government Affairs at Walmart. *The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of HealthPlatform.News. SUGGESTED STORIES Why Ohio needs the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact This is a lightly edited excerpt of testimony recently provided to the Ohio State Senate’s Health Committee hearing. On behalf of the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), representing more than 42,000 licensed respiratory care professionals nationwide, Read more Bringing sophisticated care to all Americans This is a lightly edited excerpt of testimony recently provided to the U.S. House’s Energy and Commerce Health subcommittee hearing "Examining Opportunities to Advance American Health Care through the Use of Artificial Intelligence Technologies." Read more Easing Ohio’s care provider shortage This is a lightly edited excerpt of testimony provided to the Ohio Senate’s Health Committee. As Ohio’s population ages, its need for medical care will continue to increase. Although technological improvements in artificial intelligence (AI) and telehealth can meet Read more
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