MedImpact gave this presentation that has details on the July 1, 2021 transition to a Single PBM in Medicaid as a result of the passage of SB 50 of 2020. It also includes a timeline and contact information for the MCOs.
Also in Kentucky, the Department of Medicaid Services is in search of a Pharmacy Director as Dr. Jessin Joseph has departed. Click here for more information or to apply.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
The Board of Pharmacy published a final rule to adopt regulations under Title 30, Part 3001, Article XLVIII, to establish standards and procedures for delivering telepharmacy services. The rule specifies system requirements for monitoring the dispensing of prescription drugs and provides for related drug use review and patient counseling services by an electronic method including audio, video, still image capture, and store and forward. The rule is effective May 13, 2021.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
The Board of Pharmacy approved a final rule effective May 30, 2021, allowing pharmacy technicians to administer vaccines authorized by the federal Department of Health and Human Services during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. The rule currently is in effect as an emergency rule, expiring June 8, 2021.
Also in Missouri, the Department of Commerce and Insurance announced that the pharmacist’s statewide standing orders for naloxone dispensing as well as the COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) previously signed by Dr. Williams have been rescinded because he resigned. The new statewide standing orders are signed by the authorizing physician, Dr. George Turabelidze, MD. The revised orders are available on DHHS’s website and the Board’s COVID-19 webpage.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
The meeting materials for the next meeting of the Drug Utilization Review (DUR) Board on May 11, 2021, have been posted.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Sandra Guckian at 703-774-4801.
The Board of Pharmacy published a proposed rule to amend regulations under 21 NCAC 46 to require pharmacies to report information on compounded drugs to the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy’s e-Profile Connect system. The rule would implement the memorandum of understanding with the secretary of Health and Human Services on the distribution of compounded drug products. The rule also would update information on accessing U.S. Pharmacopeia compounding standards. A hearing is scheduled for June 15, 2021, via webcast and teleconference. Comments are due June 15, 2021.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
The Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) announced the selection of six health care organizations that will provide managed care services starting in 2022. Additional information about the MCO announcement can be found in this press release and supplemental briefing documents. Further information about the planned reforms to and administration of the managed care program can be found at:
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Senator Judy Ward, RN, (R) has introduced SB 511. The bill is a joint NACDS/PACDS initiative that would update the state’s Pharmacy Practice Act to allow trained pharmacists, interns, and technicians to immunize the full CDC schedule to a person aged 3 and above.
Also in Pennsylvania, the Department of Human Services published a bulletin announcing that the COVID vaccine reimbursement rate was increased to match the revised Medicare rate of $40 per dose, effective March 15.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Big news at the Capitol this week is what to do about Medicaid expansion which will be part of the discussion as the House debates the state’s $246B budget proposal. President Biden’s action rescinding the 1115 Waiver authorized reimbursements to hospitals, nursing homes and mental health providers for patients without insurance came as quite a surprise to lawmakers. Texas has the highest number of uninsured in the nation. Among the several Medicaid expansion bills filed, none have been heard.
Also in Texas, the Health and Human Services Committee is seeking candidates to serve on the Value-Based Payment and Quality Improvement Advisory Committee. Anyone interested should review the linked application letter to find out who the committee is seeking as representatives and if you qualify; click on the application linked here to apply to be on the committee.
Also in Texas, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee held a hearing on April 21st on SB 2195 by the Chair Sen. Kolkhorst, legislation NACDS supports that protects patients who receive prescription drug benefits through a commercial health plan subject to Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) oversight. The bill also ensures patient choice, prevents self-dealing, and prohibits clawbacks. The Committee Substitute to SB 2195 was reported favorably by a 6-0 vote.
Lastly in Texas, NACDS launched two RxIMPACT alerts urging members to call members of the House Public Health Committee asking them to vote YES on HB 678 expanding access to immunizations and HB 2049 allowing pharmacists to furnish medications according to the result of a positive CLIA-waived test for acute conditions such as flu and strep throat.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
The Health Care Authority issued a final rule effective May 1, 2021, requiring providers to agree that all claims for Apple Health clients in fee-for-service and managed care are subject to 340B standards as part of participation in the 340B drug pricing program.
Also in Washington, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner extended two emergency orders until May 16, 2021, that are of interest to pharmacies.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.