In The States – Page 347 – Weekly news about states

Pennsylvania

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health recently published a letter and FAQ reminding all city pharmacies that as of January 1, 2019, they were required to stock two doses of naloxone. The requirements are the result of an Ordinance that was adopted in November 2018. Additionally, the Ordinance requires pharmacies to post signage indicating that naloxone is available. For additional information, contact dph.opioid@phila.gov.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.

Karen White2019-03-27T07:59:36-04:00March 21, 2019|Pennsylvania|

Kentucky

Legislation requiring all controlled substances to be prescribed electronically has also advanced in Kentucky. HB 342, sponsored by pharmacist Rep. Steve Sheldon (R), passed both chambers and is currently on Gov. Matt Bevin’s (R) desk for his signature. The bill contains exemptions similar to NACDS’ model language and would be effective January 1, 2021. NACDS appreciates the on-the-ground efforts of the Kentucky Retail Association on this important bill.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.

Karen White2019-03-27T07:57:28-04:00March 21, 2019|Kentucky|

Indiana

The House Health Committee unanimously voted last week to amend e-prescribing language into SB 176. The bill would require all controlled substance prescriptions to be transmitted electronically effective January 1, 2021. The bill contains similar exceptions to NACDS’ model language. Additionally, the amended bill contains language requiring a summer study of e-prescribing for all prescriptions. NACDS continues to support the on-the-ground efforts of the Indiana Retail Council to advance it.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.

Karen White2019-03-27T07:55:30-04:00March 21, 2019|Indiana|

West Virginia

Last week, the House of Delegates passed SB 369, legislation that updates the state’s generic dispensing law to clarify that when a pharmacist substitutes a generic drug for a brand name drug, the patient pays only the cost of the substituted drug. The legislation would not apply to an individual who has insurance coverage. It is now eligible to be sent to Gov. Jim Justice (R) for signature.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.

Karen White2019-03-19T13:50:06-04:00March 14, 2019|West Virginia|

South Dakota

Gov. Kristi Noem (R) signed into law HB 1137 effective Monday, July 1. Among its provisions, the measure prohibits pharmacy benefit managers from collecting cost-sharing in a great amount than the covered individual would pay for the drug. It also prohibits pharmacy benefit managers from retroactively adjusting a pharmacy claim unless it is a result of an audit or a technical billing error.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Joel Kurzman at 847-905-0555.

Karen White2019-03-19T13:52:51-04:00March 14, 2019|South Dakota|

Nebraska

Gov. Pete Ricketts (R) signed into law LB 442, facilitating medication synchronization, a priority issue for NACDS’ members

For more information, contact NACDS’ Joel Kurzman at 847-905-0555.

Karen White2019-03-19T13:46:10-04:00March 14, 2019|Nebraska|

Missouri

On March 6, NACDS testified at the Senate Seniors, Families and Children Committee in support of SB 262, legislation that would require e-prescribing of all drugs consistent with NACDS’ model legislation. Discussion continues among legislators and other concerned stakeholders about potential amendments.

Karen White2019-03-19T13:43:50-04:00March 14, 2019|Missouri|

Kentucky

HB 342, legislation that would require all controlled substance prescriptions to be e-prescribed, passed the House of Representatives. The bill was subsequently referred to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee, was amended with a clarification to one of the exemptions, was favorably reported and referred to the Senate Rules Committee.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Jill McCormack at 717-592-8977.

Karen White2019-03-19T13:42:19-04:00March 14, 2019|Kentucky|

Iowa

Gov. Kim Reynolds(R) appointed Kathy Stone, PharmD, and Dane Nealson, CPhT, to the Board of Pharmacy. Dane Nealson is the first technician to serve on the Board. Lawyer Joan Skogstrom was also reappointed.

Also in Iowa, the Board of Pharmacy delayed the effective date for its final rulesamending minimum requirements for participation in statewide protocols. The rules are now effective Wednesday, May 15.

For more information, contact NACDS’ Joel Kurzman at 847-905-0555.

Karen White2019-03-19T13:40:28-04:00March 14, 2019|Iowa|