The Health and Human Service Commission’s (HHSC) Vendor Drug Program (VDP) extended the comment period for the annual prescriber survey for the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) to May 14.
Also in Texas, the Vendor Drug Program (VDP) posted information for pharmacies on the following three topics:
- Provider Portal training materials available
- Pharmacy Education Information and Opportunities
- Pharmacy Email Addresses Must Be Current in PEMS (Provider Enrollment and Management System)
Also in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) touted that according to the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Texas economy continues to grow faster than the nation as a whole. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the real gross domestic product (GDP) for Texas grew at an annual rate of 5.0%. Texas added 270,700 jobs from March 2023 to March 2024, the most in the nation.
Also in Texas, House Speaker Dade Phelan (R) established the House Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, a new committee chaired by State Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R). At the April 29 hearing, several AI (Artificial Intelligence) experts presented an overview of what is and is not considered AI. Lawmakers expressed concerns regarding data privacy and the spread of disinformation. Testimony from law enforcement highlighted how AI was helping fight the proliferation of child pornography and human trafficking.
Also in Texas, pharmacies and other stakeholders can request expedited formulary coverage, an expedited preferred drug list change or notify HHSC (Health and Human Services Commission) about potential drug shortages impacting prescribing choice and pharmacy claim processing by using the Drug Shortage Notification and Expedited Formulary or Preferred Drug List Request (HHS Form 1315).
Also in Texas, the Vendor Drug Program (VDP) posted the Pharmacy Provider Procedure Manual to learn more information about the following topics:
- 72-hour emergency overrides for prior authorization-required drugs
- Medicaid managed care pharmacy claims billing information
- Enrolling in the Medicaid Comprehensive Care Program
- Enrolling as a durable medical equipment pharmacy provider
- Eligibility verification tools
Finally in Texas, the Vendor Drug Program (VDP) is offering free pharmacy continuing education courses available for credit:
- The pharmacy continuing education course is accredited and includes requirements related to pharmacy enrollment, using the Preferred Drug List (PDL) and online formulary, obtaining prior authorization, and dispensing a 72-hour emergency supply of medication.
- A five-minute Dispenser’s Guide to Texas Medicaid Outpatient Pharmacy Benefits quick course for pharmacy providers.
- A five-minute Prescriber’s Guide to Texas Medicaid Outpatient Pharmacy Prior Authorization quick course for prescribing physicians.
- A five-minute Texas Medicaid Mosquito Repellent Benefit quick course for pharmacy providers.
Refer to the Outreach and Education Resources for links to downloadable materials.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.