The Department of Public Health and Board of Pharmacy would like to remind pharmacies operating of the Standing Order for Dispensing Emergency Contraception Pills and the law regarding the mandatory coverage of a 12-month supply of oral contraceptives as well as the below policy changes.
Standing Order for Dispensing Emergency Contraception Pills
A statewide standing order is now in place for pharmacists to dispense emergency contraception pills. Please visit this webpage for FAQs as well as a copy of the standing order.
Oral Contraceptives
Most Massachusetts insurance plans, including MassHealth, Group Insurance Commission and private insurers, are required to cover a 12-month supply of birth control pills to be dispensed all at once. Check with the insurer for any questions.
Changes to Prescriptions
Please note that pharmacists are permitted to make quantity changes for drugs that do not require PMP [Prescription Monitoring Program] reporting in accordance with Board policy.
Please be aware that MassHealth is changing prescription drug days’ supply limitations, effective December 19. Pharmacists are permitted to make quantity changes for drugs that do not require PMP [Prescription Monitoring Program] reporting in accordance with Board policy.
Vaccine Administration by Qualified Pharmacy Technicians
Please review updated training requirements.
Automated Pharmacy Systems (APS)
Policy changes include requirements for Schedule IV, V or Schedule VI additional drugs such as gabapentin in an APS for patient pickup.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.