Ana B. Ibarra

It’s not clear how the decision might affect those enrolled in Medi-Cal, the state’s health insurance program for low-income residents. Walgreens is a key provider of prescriptions for the program.

State health officials last year launched a first-ever competitive bidding process for its Medi-Cal insurance contracts, aiming to implement higher standards. But when the winners were announced, several insurers complained about the process and potential impact on patient care.

Many infected people aren't aware of their availability or have difficulty accessing them.

The new rules will improve access to health care in many communities where it is lacking, supporters say. Some physicians are concerned the rules will expand the scope of services nurse practitioners provide.