California
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) will soon begin revalidating pharmacy providers in accordance with federal regulations.
Enrolled pharmacies that have not submitted an application in the past year will soon receive a paper notice sent via USPS. If the provider has reported different service, pay-to and mailing addresses, a copy of the notice will be sent to each unique address. This notice will require the pharmacy to respond within 35 calendar days and confirm that they intend to continue participating in the Medi-Cal program. To facilitate the response, the notices will include a QR code that may be used to provide the confirmation. Failure to respond to the notice within 35 days will result in deactivation from the Medi-Cal program.
After completing this first step and confirming that they intend to continue to participate, providers will receive another paper notice with instructions for completing the next part of the revalidation process. This second step will include using the Provider Application and Validation for Enrollment (PAVE) system to complete a revalidation application. Providers will have 70 calendar days from the date of this notice to submit a complete revalidation application. Providers should not begin the application in PAVE before receiving the second notice – applications initiated before receiving the second notice will not be accepted.
In most cases, the revalidation will be separately completed for each location, and each location will receive unique notices and will require unique responses. Chain pharmacies will complete a slightly different process.
For more information, please contact Jenny Tudesko, Assistant Division Chief, Provider Enrollment Division, Department of Health Care Services
Also in California, attention: DHCS Town Hall Webinar on July 30 to Discuss Medi-Cal Provider Enrollment Requirements
- Who: Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
- What: Town Hall Webinar
- When: July 30, 2026; 9:30am – 11:00am PDT
- Advance registration is required – register now.
The State Board of Pharmacy wishes to advise licensees and other stakeholders that DHCS will host a town hall webinar on July 30 to explain Ordering, Referring and Prescribing (ORP) enrollment requirements for claims across both pharmacy (Medi-Cal Rx) and medical (CA-MMIS) billing systems.
Federal law requires providers who order, refer or prescribe services for Medi-Cal members to be enrolled in Medi-Cal and identified on claims using a valid Type 1 (Individual) National Provider Identifier (NPI). The webinar will explain this requirement, clarify what prescribers and providers must do to achieve or stay in compliance, and gather questions from stakeholders.
ORP enrollment requirements may apply to you – Board licensees are encouraged to register and attend to learn more about these important changes.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Idaho
The Board of Pharmacy published the draft minutes from its June 4 meeting.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Louisiana
In anticipation of Tropical Storm Bertha potentially disrupting services, the Board of Pharmacy is authorized to declare a State of Emergency and issue a proclamation directing certain actions and suspending certain laws and rules. The Department of Health (LDH), Bureau of Services Financing, provided information for pharmacies on Medicaid.
Also in Louisiana, LDH issued Informational Bulletin 26-11 – Pharmacist Billing for HIV PEP/PrEP Services.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Missouri
MO HealthNet is required to complete an annual review of all drug coverage criteria per 13 CSR 70-20.200 Drug Prior Authorization Process – Pharmacy Clinical Edits and Preferred Drug Lists.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Pennsylvania
The Board of Pharmacy posted a notice, which is required to be posted by Act 34 of 2025.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Texas
In response to the heavy rains and floods in South Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) declared a state of emergency in 59 counties. The Board of Pharmacy issued guidance for emergency dispensing.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
West Virginia
The Board of Pharmacy released the following draft rules for public comments, which are due to the Board by July 30.
- 15CSR01 Licensure and Practice of Pharmacy: Updates labeling requirements for specialized dispensing systems; adds requirements for licensure for remote prescription verification for consistency.
- 15CSR03 BOP Rules for Continuing Education for Licensure of Pharmacists: Clarifies continuing education (CE) requirements on drug diversion for pharmacists, membership of CE committee and filling a vacancy of the CE committee.
- 15CSR08 Controlled Substance Monitoring Program: Clarifies the use of de-identified data used for educational, scholarly or statistical purposes.
- 15CSR14 BOP Rules for Centralized Prescription Processing: Permits remote order entry and allows reviews to be complete if the data processing system creates an audit trail of who performs what task. The current rule requires a common system.
- 15CSR15 Rules Governing Pharmacy Permits: Allows alternative delivery methods for completed prescriptions at healthcare sites under common ownership.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Alabama
The Department of Insurance announced the appointment of Thomas M. McCarthy as Senior PBM Regulatory Counsel for the Department’s PBM Compliance Division. McCarthy brings more than two decades of legal experience spanning government service, regulatory compliance, civil litigation and prosecution. In his new role, he will provide legal counsel and strategic guidance to the Department’s PBM Compliance Division, supporting enforcement actions, regulatory oversight, examinations, investigations and the implementation of the state’s PBM oversight laws.
Also in Alabama, the Pharmacy Association is now accepting nominations for two Board of Pharmacy seats.
- Independent Designated position – Must be practicing full-time in the independent pharmacy practice setting.
- Specialty Designated position – 34-23-90 defines “Specialty” as “such as nuclear, home infusion, compounding only or consultant pharmacist”.
All candidates must be:
- Residents of the state
- Licensed pharmacists who have been licensed in the state for a minimum of five (5) years
- Actively engaged in the practice of pharmacy, or pharmacy administration, or both.
Please submit nominations for both positions in writing to Louise Jones no later than March 31, 2027. All nominations must include the name, place of employment and contact information for both the nominee and nominator.
Finally in Alabama, in response to a request from CMS, Medicaid will conduct two types of off-cycle revalidations. Please review the alert to see which provider types are impacted.
- A swift revalidation for high-risk providers
- A 24-month revalidation for moderate and limited risk providers
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
California
REMINDER: Medi-Cal Rx appreciates your continued partnership and support in ensuring the continuity of care for members. Medi-Cal staff are requesting stakeholder feedback regarding the services provided by the Resolution Team (also known as the Special Population and Managed Care Plan Clinical Liaison Team). Participation in the Stakeholder Survey for the Resolution Team will help with efforts for continuous process and quality improvement. Please submit your responses no later than July 19.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Missouri
Gov. Mike Kehoe (R) signed SB 878, legislation sponsored by former Senator Travis Fitzwater (R) that strengthens pharmacy practice by expanding patient access to care. The bill allows pharmacists to order and administer FDA-approved or authorized vaccines and prescribe certain medical devices.
Also in Missouri, Gov. Kehoe (R) approved HB 2372, legislation allowing pharmacists to order and administer certain FDA-approved or authorized vaccines. The bill also permits pharmacists to independently prescribe certain medical devices.
Finally in Missouri, Gov. Kehoe (R) SB 1233, legislation allowing ordering and administering of certain vaccines approved or authorized by the FDA.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Pennsylvania
The General Assembly adjourned for the summer last weekend after passing the state budget bill. Of interest to pharmacy, the budget contained language allowing pharmacies that have been dropped from PBM network to reapply and be accepted under certain conditions. The language is in response to a Western PA-based independent pharmacy that has been in a legal battle with ESI.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
South Carolina
The Board of Pharmacy released an updated regulations document for Outsourcing (503B) facilities, reflecting changes as of May 2026.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
California
The Department of Health Care Services posted the following on the Medi-Cal Rx Web Portal:
Also in California, the Department of Health Care Services posted the following:
- June 2026 Pharmacy Medi-Cal Update Bulletin
- June 2026 Durable Medical Equipment and Medical Services Medi-Cal Update Bulletin
Also in California, Medi-Cal Rx appreciates your continued partnership and support in ensuring the continuity of care for members. Medi-Cal staff are requesting stakeholder feedback regarding the services provided by the Resolution Team (also known as the Special Population and Managed Care Plan Clinical Liaison Team). Participation in the Stakeholder Survey for the Resolution Team will help with efforts for continuous process and quality improvement. Please submit your responses no later than July 19.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Colorado
Medicaid eligibility requirements for some Health First Colorado members will change significantly because of federal legislation, H.R. 1. To help community partners understand the changes and help keep eligible members covered, the Department of Health Care Policy & Financing launched a new Toolkit and will host a Medicaid Work Requirements Webinar on July 21.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Florida
Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a Civil Investigative Demand to CVS Health Corporation, owner of both the Caremark pharmacy benefit manager and hundreds of CVS retail pharmacies in Florida. The probe examines whether CVS/Caremark steers patients to its own locations, reimburses its affiliated stores more generously than independent pharmacies for identical prescriptions, imposes burdensome audits that claw back payments and enforces restrictive contracts that threaten small businesses. Such practices allegedly contribute to pharmacy closures and "pharmacy deserts," leaving families and seniors with fewer options and higher costs. The Civil Investigative Demand requires thousands of documents and sworn testimony on reimbursement rates, pharmacy contracts, patient steering, audits, rebates, differential treatment of own versus independent stores and expansion plans. Compliance is required by July 28.
Also in Florida, the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care annual open enrollment (OE) season begins October 1 and ends November 30 for all enrollees in all regions. During open enrollment, enrollees may choose a different managed care plan or remain with their current plans. Enrollees will begin receiving OE reminder letters in July. All OE mailings will be completed by September 30. Beginning October 1, enrollees can request a plan change using one of the methods below. All plan changes requested will become effective on December 1.
- Text ENROLL to FLSMMC (357662). Enrollees will need the Medicaid ID number of each member and the account PIN number.
- Go online at www.flmedicaidmanagedcare.com to create a Member Portal account or chat with our Enrollment Virtual Assistant.
- Call 1-877-711-3662 to speak with a Choice Counselor.
Finally in Florida, the state's 2026 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday begins on July 20 and ends on August 20. Participation is mandatory. Retailers cannot opt out of the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Idaho
The Idaho Retailers Association is gathering information for a new initiative that could benefit pharmacies and patients. The Idaho Medical Association is working with the American Medical Association on an awareness initiative regarding a Medicaid covered benefit: Self-Measured Blood Pressure for adults, including blood pressure cuffs from the validated device list.
Their goal is to provide Idaho physicians with a list of pharmacies that are verified to carry the validated cuffs (assuming not all pharmacies carry them). Additional educational information about the campaign will be forthcoming, but the first step is to make sure everywhere in Idaho has a pharmacy nearby that can provide the device.
Please answer the following three questions at your earliest convenience and email your responses to pameaton@idahoretailers.org.
- Does your pharmacy carry blood pressure cuffs (for adults) from the validated device list (VDL):Devices | Validate BP
- Are you aware that this is aMedicaid coveredbenefit?
- Will your pharmacy accept a paper prescription brought in by hand by the patient for the purpose of obtaining a validated blood pressure cuff?
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Illinois
The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) issued a Standing Order for Reproductive Health Contraception and Pregnancy Tests, dated June 24.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
Iowa
Medicaid published INFORMATIONAL LETTER NO. 2739-FFS RE: Iowa Medicaid Pharmacy Program Changes: PBA Transition to Optum Rx. Effective July 27, the Iowa Medicaid FFS pharmacy benefit administrator will transition from Change Healthcare to Optum Rx.
Also in Iowa, the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed a case of measles in a vaccinated adult resident of central Iowa. Measles infection was acquired during international travel. This is the first measles case that has been identified in Iowa in 2026. Iowa reported a total of nine confirmed measles cases in 2025.
Finally in Iowa, Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) signed an executive order establishing the Iowa Medicaid Fraud Elimination Task Force for the purpose of eradicating Medicaid fraud, waste and abuse, and ensuring funds are used to support the needs of Iowans who qualify for benefits.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Kentucky
The Board of Pharmacy published the Kentucky Pharmacy Lawbook, 2026, compiling current statutes and regulations governing pharmacy practice in the state.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Louisiana
On July 10, NACDS honored Margo Chauvin, PharmD, of Sam's Club, as the 2026 Louisiana Chain Pharmacist of the Year at the Louisiana Pharmacy Association's annual meeting in Bossier City. Chauvin was chosen by a vote of her colleagues.
Also in Louisiana, effective July 1, the Medicaid Fee for Service (FFS) Pharmacy Program and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), in consultation with the Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board, will implement new Point of Sale (POS) edits for select medications.
Also In Louisiana, effective July 1, the Medicaid Fee for Service (FFS) Pharmacy Program and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), in consultation with the Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board, will implement clinical authorization for select medications.
Also in Louisiana, effective July 1, the Medicaid Fee for Service (FFS) Pharmacy Program and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), in consultation with the Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board, will implement new Point of Sale (POS) diagnosis code requirements for select medications.
Finally in Louisiana, effective July 1, the Medicaid Fee for Service (FFS) Pharmacy Program and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), in consultation with the Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board, will implement new Point of Sale (POS) quantity limits.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Maryland
The Prescription Drug Affordability Board's next meeting is scheduled for July 27 at 9:00 am. Part of the meeting may be conducted in closed session. This meeting will be held remotely. To attend virtually, please register here.
Also in Maryland, the Medicaid Office of Pharmacy Services posted a new issue of Pharmacy News & Views, with PDL updates effective July 1, 2026.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Michigan
The General Assembly approved a state budget bill last week that included funding and basic policy language requiring Medicaid health plans to hire a Single PBM to administer the pharmacy benefit. The budget now goes to the Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) for consideration.
Also in Michigan, Medicaid asked us to share their consultation summary, which contains various links and background information that may assist pharmacies with enrollment and billing for test and treat services.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Missouri
Navigating the MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) enrollment process can be complex. To get started, visit the provider enrollment application. Before reaching out for support, check the Provider Enrollment Guide on the Missouri Medicaid Audit and Compliance (MMAC) Provider Enrollment webpage. The fastest way to find answers in the Guide is to check the Index or select your specific Provider Type.
Also in Missouri, the Board of Pharmacy posted the agenda and meeting materials for a virtual open meeting on July 15.
Finally in Missouri, the Board will be hosting a two-hour webinar for Missouri pharmacists-in-charge (PIC) on July 23, covering the PIC's responsibilities, inspector tips for PICs, regulatory requirements/changes, recent compliance and inspection trends, expanded scope of practice and patient safety best practices.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Nebraska
New income guidelines increased the number of families who could qualify for the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Women, Infants and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition assistance program. The maximum income allowed for participation in WIC increased. Some families who were not eligible for the program in the past may now be eligible.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
Nevada
The Board of Pharmacy posted the agenda and Board meeting materials for July 15 and 16 in Las Vegas. There are two proposed regulations scheduled for July 16 for Workshop: (1) Amendment to establish record keeping requirements of controlled substances by a pharmacy, and (2) Amendment to require packaging used to ship prescriptions to contain a device which monitors the temperature of the prescription and alerts the patient if the prescription is exposed to temperatures outside the temperature range listed in the manufacturer’s package insert.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.