What authority was recently granted to pharmacy interns?

Pharmacy interns have been granted the authority to vaccinate, provided they have received appropriate training. This aligns with evolving roles in healthcare, where interns are increasingly involved in direct patient care activities. Vaccination is a critical public health service, and allowing interns to participate in this process helps improve vaccine access and addresses public health needs.

The requirement for proper training ensures that pharmacy interns are competent in vaccine administration techniques, understand the clinical indications for vaccinations, and are familiar with emergency protocols in case of an adverse reaction. This development also reflects a trend towards enhancing the scope of practice for pharmacy professionals, especially in light of the increasing demand for vaccination services.

The other options do not align with the recognized scope of practice for pharmacy interns. For instance, independently prescribing medications is typically reserved for fully licensed pharmacists or other qualified healthcare practitioners. Opening a pharmacy requires a pharmacist's license and meeting specific regulatory requirements, and while supervision does occur, interns are usually supervised by licensed pharmacists rather than assuming a supervisory role themselves.