Effective Thursday, July 5, the final rule of the Department of Health, Board of Pharmacy, amends regulations under FAC 64B16-28 regarding requirements for use of automated pharmacy systems (APS) in community pharmacies. The rule specifies that pharmacies may use an APS if system operation is under the supervision of a pharmacist or is located within the prescription department, adjacent to the prescription department or on the establishment of the licensed pharmacy. The rule also specifies that the system must include a mechanism to ensure that the patient or an authorized agent of the patient can communicate with a pharmacist responsible for dispensing the medical drug product. In addition, the rule revises additional requirements for patient accessed automated pharmacy systems.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.