Bill Would Make Auto-Injectors Accessible To Allergy Sufferers

AUGUSTA, Maine - Lawmakers in Maine are considering a proposal that seeks to make epinephrine autoinjectors more accessible to people who need them. Epinephrine autoinjectors are also known by the product name "EpiPen.'' They're used for emergency treatment of conditions including anaphylaxis caused by an allergic reaction.
 
Democratic Sen. Shenna Bellows has introduced a bill that would allow pharmacists to prescribe and dispense the autoinjectors at no cost to the patient. It would also create a fund that allows pharmacists to apply for reimbursement for the autoinjectors that are provided free of charge.
 
The bill was the subject of a public hearing before a state legislative committee on March 7. It will spend more time in committee before moving on to the full Maine Legislature. A work session is scheduled for Tuesday.