Ohio
Pharmacists, interns and certified technicians may now administer FDA-approved COVD-19 tests under guidance released this week by the Board of Pharmacy.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance published guidance last week in response to the COVID-19 crisis that included a strong recommendation that insurers institute medication synchronization programs, in advance of the effective date of Act 46 of 2019. The Act was the result of NACDS and Pennsylvania Association of Chain Drug Stores-backed legislation and includes full dispensing fees and pro-rated copays.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Tennessee
TennCare has release the results of their cost of dispensing survey, a recording of which can be found here. Effective May 1, 2020, the dispensing fee for ambulatory with volume of 0-64,999 increased to $11.98 and those with volume of 65,000+ increased to $8.37. The Specialty professional dispensing fee of $45.94 will be applied to Specialty Drugs, rather than Specialty Pharmacies. It will be reimbursed regardless of pharmacy practice type.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
West Virginia
The Board of Pharmacy adopted two emergency rules codifying the DEA’s exceptions to Schedule II prescribing requirements, including allowing pharmacies 15 days to confirm in writing an oral prescription for emergency refills.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.
Alabama
In response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Medicaid is temporarily waiving copayments for all services including, but not limited to doctor visits, optometric services, certified nurse practitioner visits, health care center visits, rural health clinic visits, inpatient hospital, outpatient hospital, prescription drugs, medical equipment, supplies and appliances, and ambulatory surgical centers.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Leigh Knotts at 803-243-7207.
California
In anticipation of the Legislature reconvening after the Easter holidays, NACDS and our in-state partners continue to review pending legislation and draft comment letters for policy bills scheduled to be heard later this month. In a joint letter to the Senate Business and Professions and Economic Development Committee, NACDS and CRA registered our opposition to SB 1084 by Senator Tom Umberg (D), which will require pharmacies to dispense Schedule II prescription drugs in lockable vials.
Also in California… The Board of Pharmacy reminds licensed pharmacists, advance practice pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and designated representatives that you can renew your personal license online.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Colorado
The Colorado Retail Council (CRC) submitted a second letter to Gov. Jared Polis requesting that he sign an executive order to waive state pharmacy board and plan sponsor requirements on retail pharmacies that would otherwise prevent them from offering mail, home, or curbside delivery services for non-scheduled and schedule V prescription drugs, including the suspension of mandatory face-to-face patient counseling by pharmacists and any conflicting contract language through the emergency. CRC also requested enhanced access to personal protection equipment (masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer) for the front-line workers at retail stores with direct contact with customers.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Mary Staples at 817-442-1155.
Illinois
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services issued a Provider Notice with information about temporary policy changes pertaining early refills, day supply, signature requirements, coverage of OTC products, and more.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Joel Kurzman at 847-905-0555.
Indiana
Gov. Eric Holcomb (R) signed SB 241, a PBM transparency bill that contains provisions reforming the MAC appeal process. NACDS worked with members and officially supported this legislation with a letter to key legislative leaders. We applaud the work of the Indiana Pharmacists Association to pass this law.
Also in Indiana… Gov. Eric Holcomb signed HB 1207, sponsored by pharmacist Rep. Steve Davisson. The law will allow pharmacists to dispense epinephrine under a standing order or protocol and allow pharmacy technicians to transfer certain prescriptions and to provide immunizations. NACDS supported the bill with a letter and worked with the Indiana Retail Council and Indiana Pharmacists Association to support their on-the-ground-efforts.
For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.