COLUMBUS, Ohio — Pharmacists could soon test and treat Ohioans for respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, strep throat, and RSV under new legislation a state senator says will expand health care access, particularly in rural and underserved communities where access to primary care physicians is limited.

Senate Bill 230 would authorize pharmacists to conduct screenings, order and administer laboratory tests, evaluate results and provide treatments for the aforementioned ailments and other respiratory conditions “as determined by rule.”

The legislation builds upon the lessons learned during the coronavirus pandemic, when pharmacists played an integral role in testing, vaccination, and treatment delivery. Sen. Mark Romanchuk, an Ontario Republican, who provided sponsor testimony on Wednes

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