File No. 33630

This rule was published in the June 1, 2010, issue (Vol. 2010, No. 11) of the Utah State Bulletin.


Commerce, Occupational and Professional Licensing

Rule R156-17b

Pharmacy Practice Act Rule

Notice of Proposed Rule

(Amendment)

DAR File No.: 33630
Filed: 05/11/2010 03:22:21 PM

RULE ANALYSIS

Purpose of the rule or reason for the change:

The Division and Pharmacy Board reviewed the rule to identify areas needing changes or clarification. The primary issue addressed in this filing is the elimination of the supervisory ratio of pharmacist to pharmacy technicians. This ratio has been the subject of great discussion among the profession and the Division and creates a barrier to utilize pharmacy technicians as a cashier or record keeper because the technician not actively involved in dispensing medication is counted in the 1:3 ratio. The proposed amendments also define and use the acronym "PIC" for the term "pharmacist-in-charge" (PIC), thus using the term more frequently used by the profession and eliminating unnecessary verbiage.

Summary of the rule or change:

Throughout the rule, capitalized "Division" and "Board" where appropriate, updated statutory and rule citations and replaced "pharmacist-in-charge" with "PIC". In Section R156-17b-102, added definition of "PIC", updated the edition of the USP-NF (United States Pharmacopeia/National Formulary) books, and renumbered remaining subsections. In Section R156-17b-302, added that a foreign educated applicant shall obtain a passing score on the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC) examination. In Section R156-17b-306, information contained in Subsection (4) is moved to Subsection R156-17b-606(1) under the requirements of a preceptor thus separating out the requirements to be a preceptor from the standards for the applicant's internship. In Section R156-17b-402, additions create penalties for the additional unprofessional conduct added in Section R156-17b-502. In Section R156-17b-502, added four more types of behavior that constitute unprofessional conduct. In Section R156-17b-601, amendments eliminate the supervisory ratio of one pharmacist to three pharmacy technicians. In Section R156-17b-603, added two additional standards including assuring the pharmacy operates with an appropriate pharmacist to pharmacy technician ratio given the practice setting and assuring the PIC assigned to a pharmacy is recorded with the Division. In Section R156-17b-606, moved the language regarding the criteria to be an approved preceptor as currently found in Subsection R!56-17b-306(4) to this section. In Section R156-17b-613, the changes provides the reference to the federal code and deletes the reference to state law and rule which does not address the issue. Section R156-17b-614 is renumbered to R156-17b-614a, and requires any Class A or B pharmacy involved in sterile compounding to follow the USP-NF Chapter 797 Standards. Old Section R156-17b-614a renumbered to Section R156-17b-614b. Old Section R156-17b-614b is deleted as the requirement is now included in Section R156-17b-614a. In Section R156-17b-614d, added specific language regarding sterile compounding and the type of licensure needed if located out of state. In Section R156-17b-616, the change requires an out-of-state mail-order pharmacy preparing sterile compounds to follow the USP-NF Chapter 797 Standards. In Section R156-17b-617, the change requires a Class E pharmacy preparing sterile compounds to follow the USP-NF Chapter 797 Standards.

State statutory or constitutional authorization for this rule:

  • Section 58-17b-101
  • Section 58-37-1
  • Subsection 58-17b-601(1)
  • Subsection 58-1-202(1)(a)
  • Subsection 58-1-106(1)(a)

This rule or change incorporates by reference the following material:

  • Updates: USP 32-NF 27, 2009

Anticipated cost or savings to:

the state budget:

The Division will incur minimal costs of approximately $50 to print and distribute the rule once the proposed amendments are made effective. Any costs incurred will be absorbed in the Division's current budget. Proposed amendments which eliminate the 1:3 pharmacist to pharmacy technician ratio will eliminate the citations that are written to pharmacists exceeding the current ratio; as a result less money may be deposited into the Pharmacy Education and Enforcement Fund.

local governments:

There should be little to no effect on local governments. Local governments do not own or operate pharmacies or employ pharmacy personnel.

small businesses:

The elimination of the 1:3 pharmacist to pharmacy technician may benefit a small pharmacy with only one pharmacist working a shift. If the circumstances are appropriate, the pharmacist can work with more than three pharmacy technicians thus filling and dispensing more prescriptions. Exact estimates of increased monies which could be earned cannot be determined due to a wide varying degree of circumstances between pharmacies.

persons other than small businesses, businesses, or local governmental entities:

A foreign-educated pharmacist seeking licensure will have the additional cost of the FPGEC examination which is approximately $500. The Division reviews and licenses fewer than 15 foreign pharmacy graduates a year, thus resulting in an aggregate yearly cost increase of $7,500. As a result of the proposed amendments, a pharmacist can utilize more than three pharmacy technicians if the circumstances are appropriate thus being able to dispense more prescriptions and receiving more money as an employee and/or an owner of a pharmacy. Exact estimates of increased monies which could be earned cannot be determined due to a wide varying degree of circumstances between pharmacies. Also an out-of-state mail-order pharmacy and a Class E pharmacy involved in sterile compounding must comply with the USP-NF standards which include using a hood when preparing sterile compounds, which may result in minimal increased costs. Licensed pharmacies will need to keep the renewal of their copy of the USP-NF books current which costs approximately $820 yearly.

Compliance costs for affected persons:

There could be a cost savings by eliminating the 1:3 pharmacist to pharmacy technician ratio. A foreign-educated pharmacist seeking licensure will have the additional cost of the FPGEC examination which is approximately $500. An out-of-state mail-order pharmacy and a Class E pharmacy involved in sterile compounding must comply with the USP-NF standards which include using a hood when preparing sterile compounds, which may result in minimal increased costs. Licensed pharmacies will need to keep the renewal of their copy of USP-NF books current which costs approximately $820 yearly.

Comments by the department head on the fiscal impact the rule may have on businesses:

This rule filing eliminates the ratio of pharmacist to pharmacy technician requirements; requires foreign-educated applicants to pass an examination; expands the unprofessional conduct definition to include certain practices; establishes penalties for violations; and adopts standards for sterile compounding. As more fully discussed in the rule summary, except for the cost of examination for foreign educated applicants, these changes will likely result in a cost savings to licensees and to the pharmacy industry. No other fiscal impact to businesses is anticipated.

Francine A. Giani, Executive Director

The full text of this rule may be inspected, during regular business hours, at the Division of Administrative Rules, or at:

Commerce
Occupational and Professional Licensing
160 E 300 S
SALT LAKE CITY, UT 84111-2316

Direct questions regarding this rule to:

  • Laura Poe at the above address, by phone at 801-530-6789, by FAX at 801-530-6511, or by Internet E-mail at lpoe@utah.gov

Interested persons may present their views on this rule by submitting written comments to the address above no later than 5:00 p.m. on:

07/01/2010

Interested persons may attend a public hearing regarding this rule:

  • 06/22/2010 02:00 PM, Heber Wells Bldg, 160 E 300 S, Conference Room 474, Salt Lake City, UT

This rule may become effective on:

07/08/2010

Authorized by:

Mark Steinagel, Director

RULE TEXT

R156. Commerce, Occupational and Professional Licensing.

R156-17b. Pharmacy Practice Act Rule.

R156-17b-102. Definitions.

In addition to the definitions in Title 58, Chapters 1 and 17b, as used in Title 58, Chapters 1 and 17b or this rule:

(1) "ACPE" means the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education or Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.

(2) "Analytical laboratory":

(a) means a facility in possession of prescription drugs for the purpose of analysis; and

(b) does not include a laboratory possessing prescription drugs used as standards and controls in performing drug monitoring or drug screening analysis if the prescription drugs are pre-diluted in a human or animal body fluid, human or animal body fluid components, organic solvents, or inorganic buffers at a concentration not exceeding one milligram per milliliter when labeled or otherwise designated as being for in-vitro diagnostic use.

(3) "Authorized distributor of record" means a pharmaceutical wholesaler with whom a manufacturer has established an ongoing relationship to distribute the manufacturer's prescription drugs. An ongoing relationship is deemed to exist between such pharmaceutical wholesaler and a manufacturer, as defined in Section 1504 of the Internal Revenue Code, when the pharmaceutical wholesaler has a written agreement currently in effect with the manufacturer evidencing such ongoing relationship, and the pharmaceutical wholesaler is listed on the manufacturer's current list of authorized distributors of record.

(4) "Authorized personnel" means any person who is a part of the pharmacy staff who participates in the operational processes of the pharmacy and contributes to the natural flow of pharmaceutical care.

(5) "Central Order Entry" means a pharmacy where functions are performed at the request of another pharmacy to perform processing functions such as dispensing, drug review, refill authorizations, and therapeutic interventions.

(6) "Chain pharmacy warehouse" means a physical location for prescription drugs that acts as a central warehouse and performs intracompany sales or transfers of the prescription drugs to a group of chain pharmacies that have the same common ownership and control.

(7) "Co-licensed partner or product" means an instance where two or more parties have the right to engage in the manufacturing and/or marketing of a prescription drug, consistent with FDA's implementation of the Prescription Drug Marketing Act.

(8) "Cooperative pharmacy warehouse" means a physical location for drugs that acts as a central warehouse and is owned, operated or affiliated with a group purchasing organization (GPO) or pharmacy buying cooperative and distributes those drugs exclusively to its members.

(9) "Counterfeit prescription drug" has the meaning given that term in 21 USC 321(g)(2), including any amendments thereto.

(10) "Counterfeiting" means engaging in activities that create a counterfeit prescription drug.

(11) "Dispense", as defined in Subsection 58-17b-102(23), does not include transferring medications for a patient from a legally dispensed prescription for that particular patient into a daily or weekly drug container to facilitate the patient taking the correct medication.

(12) "Drop shipment" means the sale of a prescription drug to a pharmaceutical wholesaler by the manufacturer of the drug; by the manufacturer's co-licensed product partner, third party logistics provider, or exclusive distributor; or by an authorized distributor of record that purchased the product directly from the manufacturer or from one of these entities; whereby:

(a) the pharmaceutical wholesale distributor takes title to but not physical possession of such prescription drug;

(b) the pharmaceutical wholesale distributor invoices the pharmacy, pharmacy warehouse, or other person authorized by law to dispense to administer such drug; and

(c) the pharmacy, pharmacy warehouse, or other person authorized by law to dispense or administer such drug receives delivery of the prescription drug directly from the manufacturer; from the co-licensed product partner, third party logistics provider, or exclusive distributor; or from an authorized distributor of record that purchases the product directly from the manufacturer or from one of these entities.

(13) "Drug therapy management" means the review of a drug therapy regimen of a patient by one or more pharmacists for the purpose of evaluating and rendering advice to one or more practitioners regarding adjustment of the regimen.

(14) "Drugs", as used in this rule, means drugs or devices.

(15) "ExCPT", as used in this rule, means the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians.

(16) "FDA" means the United States Food and Drug Administration and any successor agency.

(17) "High-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk drugs" refers to the risk to a patient's health from compounding sterile preparations, as referred to in USP-NF Chapter 797, for details of determining risk level.

(18) "Hospice facility pharmacy" means a pharmacy that supplies drugs to patients in a licensed healthcare facility for terminal patients.

(19) "Hospital clinic pharmacy" means a pharmacy that is located in an outpatient treatment area where a pharmacist or pharmacy intern is compounding, admixing, or dispensing prescription drugs, and where:

(a) prescription drugs or devices are under the control of the pharmacist, or the facility for administration to patients of that facility;

(b) prescription drugs or devices are dispensed by the pharmacist or pharmacy intern; or

(c) prescription drugs are administered in accordance with the order of a practitioner by an employee or agent of the facility.

(20) "Legend drug" or "prescription drug" means any drug or device that has been determined to be unsafe for self-medication or any drug or device that bears or is required to bear the legend:

(a) "Caution: federal law prohibits dispensing without prescription";

(b) "Caution: federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian"; or

(c) "Rx only".

(21) "Maintenance medications" means medications the patient takes on an ongoing basis.

(22) "Manufacturer's exclusive distributor" means an entity that contracts with a manufacturer to provide or coordinate warehousing, distribution, or other services on behalf of a manufacturer and who takes title to that manufacturer's prescription drug, but who does not have general responsibility to direct the drug's sale or disposition. Such manufacturer's exclusive distributor must be licensed as a pharmaceutical wholesaler under this chapter and be an "authorized distributor of record" to be considered part of the "normal distribution channel".

(23) "MPJE" means the Multistate Jurisprudence Examination.

(24) "NABP" means the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.

(25) "NAPLEX" means North American Pharmacy Licensing Examination.

(26) "Normal distribution channel" means a chain of custody for a prescription drug that goes directly, by drop shipment as defined in Subsection (12), or via intracompany transfer from a manufacturer; or from the manufacturer's co-licensed partner, third-party logistics provider, or the exclusive distributor to:

(a) a pharmacy or other designated persons authorized under this chapter to dispense or administer prescription drugs to a patient;

(b) a chain pharmacy warehouse that performs intracompany sales or transfers of such drugs to a group of pharmacies under common ownership and control;

(c) a cooperative pharmacy warehouse to a pharmacy that is a member of the pharmacy buying cooperative or GPO to a patient;

(d) an authorized distributor of record, and then to either a pharmacy or other designated persons authorized under this chapter to dispense or administer such drug for use by a patient;

(e) an authorized distributor of record, and then to a chain pharmacy warehouse that performs intracompany sales or transfers of such drugs to a group of pharmacies under common ownership and control; or

(f) an authorized distributor of record to another authorized distributor of record to a licensed pharmaceutical facility or a licensed healthcare practitioner authorized under this chapter to dispense or administer such drug for use by a patient.

(27) "Parenteral" means a method of drug delivery injected into body tissues but not via the gastrointestinal tract.

(28) "Pedigree" means a document or electronic file containing information that records each distribution of any given prescription drug.

(29) "PIC", as used in this rule, means the pharmacist-in-charge.

([29]30) "Prescription files" means all hard-copy and electronic prescriptions that includes pharmacist notes or technician notes, clarifications or information written or attached that is pertinent to the prescription.

([30]31) "PTCB" means the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

([31]32) "Qualified continuing education", as used in this rule, means continuing education that meets the standards set forth in Section R156-17b-309.

([32]33) "Refill" means to fill again.

([33]34) "Repackage" means repackaging or otherwise changing the container, wrapper, or labeling to further the distribution of a prescription drug, excluding that completed by the pharmacist responsible for dispensing the product to a patient.

([34]35) "Reverse distributor" means a person or company that retrieves unusable or outdated drugs from a pharmacy or pharmacist for the purpose of removing those drugs from stock and destroying them.

([35]36) "Sterile products preparation facility" means any facility, or portion of the facility, that compounds sterile products using aseptic technique.

([36]37) "Third party logistics provider" means anyone who contracts with a prescription drug manufacturer to provide or coordinate warehousing, distribution, or other similar services on behalf of a manufacturer, but does not take title to the prescription drug or have any authoritative control over the prescription drug's sale. Such third party logistics provider must be licensed as a pharmaceutical wholesaler under this chapter and be an "authorized distributor of record" to be considered part of the "normal distribution channel".

([37]38) "Unauthorized personnel" means any person who is not participating in the operational processes of the pharmacy who in some way would interrupt the natural flow of pharmaceutical care.

([38]39) "Unit dose" means the ordered amount of a drug in a dosage form prepared for a one-time administration to an individual and indicates the name, strength, lot number and expiration date for the drug.

([39]40) "Unprofessional conduct", as defined in Title 58, Chapters 1 and 17b, is further defined, in accordance with Subsection 58-1-203(1)(e), in Section R156-17b-502.

([40]41) "USP-NF" means the United States Pharmacopeia-National Formulary (USP [31]32-NF [26]27), [2008]2009 edition, which is official from May 1, [2008]2009 through Supplement 2, dated December 1, [2008]2009, which is hereby adopted and incorporated by reference.

([41]42) "Wholesaler" means a wholesale distributor who supplies or distributes drugs or medical devices that are restricted by federal law to sales based on the order of a physician to a person other than the consumer or patient.

([42]43) "Wholesale distribution" means the distribution of drugs to persons other than consumers or patients, but does not include:

(a) intracompany sales or transfers;

(b) the sale, purchase, distribution, trade, or other transfer of a prescription drug for emergency medical reasons, as defined under 21 CFR 203.3(m), including any amendments thereto;

(c) the sale, purchase, or trade of a drug pursuant to a prescription;

(d) the distribution of drug samples;

(e) the return or transfer of prescription drugs to the original manufacturer, original wholesale distributor, reverse distributor, or a third party returns processor;

(f) the sale, purchase, distribution, trade, or transfer of a prescription drug from one authorized distributor of record to one additional authorized distributor of record during a time period for which there is documentation from the manufacturer that the manufacturer is able to supply a prescription drug and the supplying authorized distributor of record states in writing that the prescription drug being supplied had until that time been exclusively in the normal distribution channel;

(g) the sale, purchase or exchange of blood or blood components for transfusions;

(h) the sale, transfer, merger or consolidation of all or part of the business of a pharmacy;

(i) delivery of a prescription drug by a common carrier; or

(j) other transactions excluded from the definition of "wholesale distribution" under 21 CFR 203.3 (cc), including any amendments thereto.

 

R156-17b-105. Licensure - Administrative Inspection.

In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-103(3)(e), the procedure for disposing of any drugs or devices seized by the Division during an administrative inspection will be handled as follows:

(1) Any legal drugs or devices found and temporarily seized by the Division [and]that are found to be in compliance with this chapter will be returned to the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC of the pharmacy involved at the conclusion of any investigative or adjudicative proceedings and appeals.

(2) Any drugs or devices that are temporarily seized by the Division [and]that are found to be unlawfully possessed, adulterated, misbranded, outdated, or otherwise in violation of this rule shall be destroyed by Division personnel at the conclusion of any investigative or adjudicative proceedings and appeals. The destruction of any seized controlled substance drugs will be witnessed by two Division individuals. A controlled substance destruction form will be completed and retained by the Division.

(3) An investigator may, upon determination that the violations observed are of a nature that pose an imminent peril to the public health, safety and welfare, recommend to the Division Director to issue an emergency licensure action, such as cease and desist.

 

R156-17b-301. Pharmacy Licensure Classifications - Pharmacist-in-Charge Requirements.

In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-302(4), the classification of pharmacies holding licenses are clarified as:

(1) Class A pharmacy includes all retail operations located in Utah and requires a [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC.

(2) Class B pharmacy includes an institutional pharmacy that provides services to a target population unique to the needs of the healthcare services required by the patient. All Class B pharmacies require a [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC except for pharmaceutical administration facilities and methadone clinics. Examples of Class B pharmacies include:

(a) closed door;

(b) hospital clinic pharmacy;

(c) methadone clinics;

(d) nuclear;

(e) branch;

(f) hospice facility pharmacy;

(g) veterinarian pharmaceutical facility;

(h) pharmaceutical administration facility; and

(i) sterile product preparation facility.

(j) A retail pharmacy that prepares sterile products does not require a separate license as a Class B pharmacy.

(3) Class C pharmacy includes pharmacies located in Utah that are involved in:

(a) manufacturing;

(b) producing;

(c) wholesaling;

(d) distributing; and

(e) reverse distributing.

(4) Class D pharmacy includes pharmacies located outside the state of Utah. Class D pharmacies require a [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC licensed in the state where the pharmacy is located and include Out-of-state mail order pharmacies. Facilities that have multiple locations must have licenses for each facility and every component part of a facility.

(5) Class E pharmacy includes those pharmacies that do not require a [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC and include:

(a) medical gases providers;

(b) analytical laboratories

(c) durable medical equipment providers; and

(d) central order entry pharmacies.

(6) All pharmacy licenses will be converted to the appropriate classification by the Division as identified in Section 58-17b-302.

(7) Each Class A and each Class B pharmacy required to have a [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall have one [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC who is employed on a full-time basis as defined by the employer, who acts as a [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC for one pharmacy. However, the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC may be the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC of more than one Class A pharmacy, if the additional Class A pharmacies are not open to provide pharmacy services simultaneously.

(8) The [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall comply with the provisions of Section R156-17b-603.

 

R156-17b-302. Licensure - Examinations.

(1) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-303(1)(h), the examinations that must be successfully passed by an applicant for licensure as a pharmacist are:

(a) the NAPLEX with a passing score as established by NABP; and

(b) the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) with a minimum passing score as established by NABP.

(2) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-303(3)(j), an applicant applying by endorsement is required to pass the MPJE.

(3) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-305(1)(g), the examinations which must be passed by an applicant applying for licensure as a pharmacy technician are:

(a) the Utah Pharmacy Technician Law and Rule Examination with a passing score of at least 75 and taken at the time of making application for licensure; and

(b) the PTCB or ExCPT with a passing score as established by the certifying body. The certificate must exhibit a valid date and that the certification is active.

(4) A graduate of a foreign pharmacy school shall obtain a passing score on the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC) examination.

 

R156-17b-304. Licensure - Education Requirements.

(1) In accordance with Subsections 58-17b-303(2) and 58-17b-304(7)(c), the credentialing agency recognized to provide certification and evaluate equivalency of a foreign educated pharmacy graduate is the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC) of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy Foundation.

(2) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-304(6), an applicant for a pharmacy intern license shall demonstrate that he meets one of the following education criteria:

(a) current admission in a College of Pharmacy accredited by the ACPE by written verification from the Dean of the College;

(b) a graduate degree from a school or college of pharmacy which is accredited by the ACPE; or

(c) a graduate degree from a foreign pharmacy school as established by a certificate of equivalency from an approved credentialing agency defined in Subsection (1).

(3) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-305(1)(f), a pharmacy technician must complete an approved program of education and training that meets the following standards:

(a) The didactic training program must be approved by the Division in collaboration with the Board and must address, at a minimum, the following topics:

(i) legal aspects of pharmacy practice including federal and state laws and rules governing practice;

(ii) hygiene and aseptic techniques;

(iii) terminology, abbreviations and symbols;

(iv) pharmaceutical calculations;

(v) identification of drugs by trade and generic names, and therapeutic classifications;

(vi) filling of orders and prescriptions including packaging and labeling;

(vii) ordering, restocking, and maintaining drug inventory;

(viii) computer applications in the pharmacy; and

(ix) non-prescription products including cough and cold, nutritional, analgesics, allergy, diabetic testing supplies, first aid, ophthalmic, family planning, foot, feminine hygiene, gastrointestinal preparations, and pharmacy care over-the-counter drugs, except those over-the-counter drugs that are prescribed by a practitioner.

(b) This training program's curriculum and a copy of the final examination shall be submitted to the Division for approval by the Board prior to starting any training session with a pharmacy technician in training. The final examination must include questions covering each of the topics listed in Subsection (3)(a) above.

(c) Approval must be granted by the Division in collaboration with the Board before a student may start a program of study. An individual who completes a non-approved program is not eligible for licensure.

(d) The training program must require at least 180 hours of practical training supervised by a licensed pharmacist in good standing with the Division and must include written protocols and guidelines for the teaching pharmacist outlining the utilization and supervision of pharmacy technicians in training that includes:

(i) the specific manner in which supervision will be completed; and

(ii) an evaluative procedure to verify the accuracy and completeness of all acts, tasks and functions performed by the pharmacy technician in training.

(e) An individual must complete an approved training program and successfully pass the required examinations as listed in Subsection R156-17b-302(3) within one year from the date of the first day of the training program, unless otherwise approved by the Division in collaboration with the Board.

(i) An individual who has completed an approved program, but did not seek licensure within the one year time frame must complete a minimum of 180 hours of refresher practice in a pharmacy approved by the [b]Board if it has been more than six months since having exposure to pharmacy practice.

(ii) An individual who has been licensed as a pharmacy technician but allowed that license to expire for more than two years and wishes to renew that license must complete a minimum of 180 hours of refresher hours in an approved pharmacy under the direct supervision of a pharmacist.

(iii) An individual who has completed an approved program, but is awaiting the results of the required examinations may practice as a technician-in-training under the direct supervision of the pharmacist for a period not to exceed three months. If the individual fails the examinations, that individual can no longer work as at technician-in-training while waiting to retake the examinations. The individual shall work in the pharmacy only as supportive personnel.

(4) An applicant for licensure as a pharmacy technician is deemed to have met the qualification for licensure in Subsection 58-17b-305(f) if the applicant:

(a) is currently licensed and in good standing in another state and has not had any adverse action taken on that license;

(b) has engaged in the practice as a pharmacy technician for a minimum of 1,000 hours in that state within the past two years or equivalent experience as approved by the Division in collaboration with the Board; and

(c) has passed and maintained current PTCB or ExCPT certification and passed the Utah law exam.

 

R156-17b-305. Temporary Licensure.

(1) In accordance with Subsection 58-1-303(1), the [d]Division may issue a temporary pharmacist license to a person who meets all qualifications for licensure as a pharmacist except for the passing of the required examination, if the applicant:

(a) is a graduate of an ACPE accredited pharmacy school within two months immediately preceding application for licensure;

(b) submit a complete application for licensure as a pharmacist except the passing of the NABP and MJPE examinations;

(c) submits evidence of having secured employment conditioned upon issuance of the temporary license, and the employment is under the direct, on-site supervision of a pharmacist with an active, non-temporary license that may or may not include a controlled substance license; and

(d) has registered to take the required licensure examinations.

(2) A temporary pharmacist license issued under Subsection (1) expires the earlier of:

(a) six months from the date of issuance;

(b) the date upon which the [d]Division receives notice from the examination agency that the individual has failed either examination twice; or

(c) the date upon which the [d]Division issues the individual full licensure.

(3) A pharmacist temporary license issued in accordance with this section cannot be renewed or extended.

 

R156-17b-306. Licensure - Pharmacist - Pharmacy Internship Standards.

(1) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-303(1)(g), the standards for the pharmacy internship required for licensure as a pharmacist include the following:

(a) At least 1500 hours of practice supervised by a pharmacy preceptor shall be obtained in Utah or another state or territory of the United States, or a combination of both.

(i) Internship hours completed in Utah shall include at least 360 hours but not more than 900 hours in a college coordinated practical experience program as an integral part of the curriculum which shall include a minimum of 120 hours in each of the following practices:

(A) community pharmacy;

(B) institutional pharmacy; and

(C) any clinical setting.

(ii) Internship hours completed in another state or territory of the United States shall be accepted based on the approval of the hours by the pharmacy board in the jurisdiction where the hours were obtained.

(b) Evidence of completed internship hours shall be documented to the Division by the pharmacy intern at the time application is made for a Utah pharmacist license.

(c) Pharmacy interns participating in internships may be credited no more than 50 hours per week of internship experience.

(d) No credit will be awarded for didactic experience.

(2) If a pharmacy intern is suspended or dismissed from an approved College of Pharmacy, the intern must notify the Division within 15 days of the suspension or dismissal.

(3) If a pharmacy intern ceases to meet all requirements for intern licensure, the pharmacy intern shall surrender [his]the pharmacy intern license to the Division within 60 days unless an extension is [required]requested and granted by the Division in collaboration with the Board.[

(4) In accordance with Subsections 58-17b-102(50), to be an approved preceptor, a pharmacist must meet the following criteria:

(a) hold a Utah pharmacist license that is active and in good standing;

(b) document engaging in active practice as a licensed pharmacist for not less than two years in any jurisdiction;

(c) not be currently under any sanction nor under any sanction at any time which when considered by the Division and the Board would be of such a nature that the best interests of the intern and the public would not be served;

(d) provide direct, on-site supervision to only one pharmacy intern during a working shift; and

(e) refer to the intern training guidelines as outlined in the Pharmacy Coordinating Council of Utah Internship Competencies, October 12, 2004, as information about a range of best practices for training interns.]

 

R156-17b-309. Continuing Education.

(1) In accordance with Section 58-17b-310 and Subsections 58-1-203(1)(g) and 58-1-308(3)(b), there is created a requirement for continuing education as a condition for renewal or reinstatement of a pharmacist or pharmacy technician license issued under Title 58, Chapter 17b.

(2) Requirements shall consist of the following number of qualified continuing education hours in each preceding renewal period:

(a) 30 hours for a pharmacist; and

(b) 20 hours for a pharmacy technician.

(3) The required number of hours of qualified continuing professional education for an individual who first becomes licensed during the two year renewal cycle shall be decreased in a pro-rata amount equal to any part of that two year period preceding the date on which that individual first became licensed.

(4) Qualified continuing professional education hours shall consist of the following:

(a) for pharmacists:

(i) institutes, seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops, various forms of mediated instruction, and programmed learning courses, presented by an institution, individual, organization, association, corporation or agency that has been approved by ACPE;

(ii) programs approved by health-related continuing education approval organizations provided the continuing education is nationally recognized by a healthcare accrediting agency and the education is related to the practice of pharmacy;

(iii) programs of certification by qualified individuals, such as certified diabetes educator credentials, board certification in advanced therapeutic disease management or other certification as approved by the Division in consultation with the Board; and

(iv) training or educational presentations offered by the [d]Division.

(b) for pharmacy technicians:

(i) institutes, seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops, various forms of mediated instruction, and programmed learning courses, presented by an institution, individual, organization, association, corporation or agency that has been approved by ACPE;

(ii) programs approved by health-related continuing education approval organizations provided the continuing education is nationally recognized by a healthcare accrediting agency and the education is related to the practice of pharmacy; and

(iii) educational meetings that meet ACPE continuing education criteria sponsored by the Utah Pharmacist Association, the Utah Society of Health-System Pharmacists or other professional organization or association; and

(iv) training or educational presentations offered by the [d]Division.

(5) Credit for qualified continuing professional education shall be recognized in accordance with the following:

(a) Pharmacists:

(i) a minimum of 12 hours shall be obtained through attendance at live or technology enabled participation lectures, seminars or workshops;

(ii) a minimum of 15 hours shall be in drug therapy or patient management; and

(iii) a minimum of one hour shall be in pharmacy law or ethics.

(b) Pharmacy Technicians:

(i) a minimum of eight hours shall be obtained through attendance at live or technology enabled participation at lectures, seminars or workshops; and

(ii) a minimum of one hour shall be in pharmacy law or ethics.

(iii) documentation of current PTCB or ExCPT certification will count as meeting the requirement for continuing education.

(6) A licensee shall be responsible for maintaining competent records of completed qualified continuing professional education for a period of four years after the close of the two year period to which the records pertain. It is the responsibility of the licensee to maintain such information with respect to qualified continuing professional education to demonstrate it meets the requirements under this section.

 

R156-17b-402. Administrative Penalties.

In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-401(6) and Sections 58-17b-501 and 58-17b-502, unless otherwise ordered by the presiding officer, the following fine and citation schedule shall apply.

(1) Preventing or refusing to permit any authorized agent of the Division to conduct an inspection:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $5,000

(2) Failing to deliver the license or permit or certificate to the Division upon demand:

initial offense: $100 - $1,000

subsequent offense(s): $500 - $2,000

(3) Using the title pharmacist, druggist, pharmacy intern, pharmacy technician or any other term having a similar meaning or any term having similar meaning when not licensed to do so:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(4) Conducting or transacting business under a name which contains as part of that name the words drugstore, pharmacy, drugs, medicine store, medicines, drug shop, apothecary, prescriptions or any other term having a similar meaning or in any manner advertising otherwise describing or referring to the place of the conducted business or profession when not licensed to do so:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(5) Buying, selling, causing to be sold, or offering for sale any drug or device which bears the inscription sample, not for resale, investigational purposes, or experimental use only or other similar words:

initial offense: $1,000 - $5,000

subsequent offense(s): $10,000

(6) Using to the licensee's own advantage or revealing to anyone other than the Division, Board or its authorized representatives, any information acquired under the authority of this chapter concerning any method or process which is a trade secret:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(7) Illegally procuring or attempting to procure any drug for the licensee or to have someone else procure or attempt to procure a drug:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(8) Filling, refilling or advertising the filling or refilling of prescription drugs when not licensed do to so:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(9) Requiring any employed pharmacist, pharmacy intern, pharmacy technician or authorized supportive personnel to engage in any conduct in violation of this chapter:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,500 - $10,000

(10) Being in possession of a drug for an unlawful purpose:

initial offense: $500 - $1,000

subsequent offense(s): $1,500 - $5,000

(11) Dispensing a prescription drug to anyone who does not have a prescription from a practitioner or to anyone who is known or should be known as attempting to obtain drugs by fraud or misrepresentation:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,500 - $10,000

(12) Selling, dispensing or otherwise trafficking in prescription drugs when not licensed to do so or when not exempted from licensure:

initial offense: $1,000 - $5,000

subsequent offense(s): $10,000

(13) Using a prescription drug or controlled substance for the licensee that was not lawfully prescribed for the licensee by a practitioner:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $1,000 - $2,5000

(14) Willfully deceiving or attempting to deceive the Division, the Board or its authorized agents as to any relevant matter regarding compliance under this chapter:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,500 - $10,000

(15) Paying rebates to practitioners or any other health care provider, or entering into any agreement with a medical practitioner or any other person for the payment or acceptance of compensation for recommending the professional services of either party:

initial offense:$2,500 - $5,000

subsequent offense(s):$5,500 - $10,000

(16) Misbranding or adulteration of any drug or device or the sale, distribution or dispensing of any outdated, misbranded, or adulterated drugs or devices:

initial offense: $1,000 - $5,000

subsequent offense(s): $10,000

(17) Accepting back and redistributing any unused drugs, with the exception as provided in Section 58-17b-503:

initial offense: $1,000 - $5,000

subsequent offense(s): $10,000

(18) Violating Federal Title II, PL 91, Controlled Substances Act or Title 58, Chapter 37, Utah Controlled Substances Act, or rules and regulations adopted under either act:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,500 - $10,000

(19) Failure to follow USP-NF Chapter 797 guidelines:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,500 - $10,000

(20) Failure to follow USP-NF Chapter 795 guidelines:

initial offense: $250 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $500 - $750

(21) Administering without appropriate guidelines or lawful order:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(22) Disclosing confidential patient information in violation of the provision of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 or other applicable law:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $500 - $1,000

(23) Engaging in the practice of pharmacy without a licensed pharmacist designated as the [pharmacist in charge]PIC:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(24) Failing to report to the Division any adverse action taken by another licensing jurisdiction, government agency, law enforcement agency or court:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $500 - $1,000

(25) Compounding a prescription drug for sale to another pharmaceutical facility:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $500 - $1,000

(26) Preparing a prescription drug in a dosage form which is regularly and commonly available from a manufacturer in quantities and strengths prescribed by a practitioner:

initial offense: $500 - $1,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,500 - $5,000

(27) Violating any ethical code provision of the American Pharmaceutical Association Code of Ethics for Pharmacists, October 27, 1994:

initial offense: $250 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(28) Failing to comply with the continuing education requirements set forth in this rule:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $500 - $1,000

(29) Failing to provide the Division with a current mailing address within 10 days following any change of address:

initial offense: $50 - $100

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $300

(30) Defaulting on a student loan:

initial offense: $100 - $200

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $500

(31) Failing to abide by all applicable federal and state law regarding the practice of pharmacy:

initial offense: $500 - $1,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(32) Failing to comply with administrative inspections:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(33) Abandoning a pharmacy and/or leaving drugs accessible to the public:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(34) Failure to return or providing false information on a self-inspection report:

initial offense: $100 - $250

subsequent offense(s): $300 - $500

(35) Failure to pay an administrative fine:

Double the original penalty amount up to $10,000

(36) Any other conduct which constitutes unprofessional or unlawful conduct:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(37) Failure to maintain an appropriate ratio of personnel:

Pharmacist initial offense: $100 - $250

Pharmacist subsequent offense(s): $500 - $2,500

Pharmacy initial offense: $250 - $1,000

Pharmacy subsequent offense(s): $500 - $5,000

(38) Unauthorized people in the pharmacy:

Pharmacist initial offense: $50 - $100

Pharmacist subsequent offense(s): $250 - $500

Pharmacy initial offense: $250 - $500

Pharmacy subsequent offense(s): $1,000 - $2,000

(39) Failure to offer to counsel:

Pharmacy personnel initial offense: $500 - $2,500

Pharmacy personnel subsequent offense(s): $5,000 - $10,000

Pharmacy: $2,000 per occurrence

(40) Violations of the laws and rules regulating operating standards in a pharmacy discovered upon inspection by the Division:

initial violation: $50 - $100

failure to comply within determined time: $250 - $500

subsequent violations: $250 - $500

failure to comply within established time: $750 - $1,000

(41) Practicing or attempting to practice as a pharmacist, pharmacist intern, or pharmacy technician or operating a pharmacy without a license:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(42) Impersonating a licensee or practicing under a false name:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(43) Knowingly employing an unlicensed person:

initial offense: $500 - $1,000

subsequent offense(s): $1,000 - $5,000

(44) Knowingly permitting the use of a license by another person:

initial offense: $500 - $1,000

subsequent offense(s): $1,000 - $5,000

(45) Obtaining a passing score, applying for or obtaining a license or otherwise dealing with the Division or Board through the use of fraud, forgery, intentional deception, misrepresentation, misstatement, or omission:

initial offense: $100 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(46) Violating or aiding or abetting any other person to violate any statute, rule or order regulating pharmacy:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(47) Violating or aiding or abetting any other person to violate any generally accepted professional or ethical standard:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(48) Engaging in conduct that results in conviction of, or a plea of nolo contendere, or a plea of guilty or nolo contendere held in abeyance to a crime:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(49) Engaging in conduct that results in disciplinary action by any other jurisdiction or regulatory authority:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(50) Engaging in conduct, including the use of intoxicants or drugs, to the extent that the conduct does or may impair the ability to safely engage in practice as a pharmacist, pharmacy intern or pharmacy technician:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(51) Practicing or attempting to practice as a pharmacist, pharmacy intern or pharmacy technician when physically or mentally unfit to do so:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(52) Practicing or attempting to practice as a pharmacist, pharmacy intern, or pharmacy technician through gross incompetence, gross negligence or a pattern of incompetency or negligence:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s): $2,000 - $10,000

(53) Practicing or attempting to practice as a pharmacist, pharmacy intern or pharmacy technician by any form of action or communication which is false, misleading, deceptive or fraudulent:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(54) Practicing or attempting to practice as a pharmacist, pharmacy intern or pharmacy technician beyond the individual's scope of competency, abilities or education:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(55) Practicing or attempting to practice as a pharmacist, pharmacy intern or pharmacy technician beyond the scope of licensure:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense(s): $200 - $1,000

(56) Verbally, physically or mentally abusing or exploiting any person through conduct connected with the licensee's practice:

initial offense: $100 - $1,000

subsequent offense(s): $500 - $2,000

(57) Failure to comply with the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC standards:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense(s) $2,000 - $10,000

(58) Failure to resolve identified drug therapy management problems:

initial offense: $500 - $2,500

subsequent offense: $5,000 - $10,000

(59) Dispensing a medication that has been discontinued by the FDA:

initial offense: $500 - $1,000

subsequent offense: $2,500 - $5,000

(60) Failing to keep or report accurate records of training hours:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense: $200 - $1,000

(61) Failing to provide PIC information to the Division:

initial offense: $100 - $500

subsequent offense: $200 - $1,000

(62) Requiring a pharmacist to operate a pharmacy with unsafe personnel ratio:

initial offense: $500 - $2,000

subsequent offense: $2,000 - $10,000

 

R156-17b-502. Unprofessional Conduct.

"Unprofessional conduct" includes:

(1) violating any provision of the American Pharmaceutical Association (APhA) Code of Ethics for Pharmacists, October 27, 1994, which is hereby incorporated by reference;

(2) failing to comply with the USP-NF Chapters 795 and 797;

(3) failing to comply with the continuing education requirements set forth in these rules;

(4) failing to provide the Division with a current mailing address within a 10 business day period of time following any change of address;

(5) defaulting on a student loan;

(6) failing to abide by all applicable federal and state law regarding the practice of pharmacy;

(7) failing to comply with administrative inspections;

(8) abandoning a pharmacy or leaving prescription drugs accessible to the public;

(9) failing to identify licensure classification when communicating by any means;

(10) the practice of pharmacy with an inappropriate pharmacist to pharmacy intern ratio established by Subsection R156-17b-306(4)(d) or pharmacist to pharmacy technician ratio as established by Subsection R156-17b-601(3);

(11) allowing any unauthorized persons in the pharmacy;

(12) failing to offer to counsel any person receiving a prescription medication;

(13) failing to pay an administrative fine that has been assessed in the time designated by the Division;

(14) failing to comply with the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC standards as established in Section R156-17b-603;[ and]

(15) failing to take appropriate steps to avoid or resolve identified drug therapy management problems as referenced in Subsection R156-17b-611(3) ;

(16) dispensing medication that has been discontinued by the FDA;

(17) failing to keep or report accurate records of training hours;

(18) failing to provide PIC information to the Division within 30 days of a change in PIC; and

(19) requiring a pharmacy, PIC, or any other pharmacist to operate the pharmacy or allow operation of the pharmacy with a ratio of supervising pharmacist to pharmacy technician/pharmacy intern/support personnel which, under the circumstances of the particular practice setting, results in, or reasonably would be expected to result in, an unreasonable risk of harm to public health, safety, and welfare.

 

R156-17b-601. Operating Standards - Pharmacy Technician[ - Scope of Practice].

In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-102([56]55), [the scope of ]practice [of a]as a licensed pharmacy technician is defined as follows:

(1) The pharmacy technician may perform any task associated with the physical preparation and processing of prescription and medication orders including:

(a) receiving written prescriptions;

(b) taking refill orders;

(c) entering and retrieving information into and from a database or patient profile;

(d) preparing labels;

(e) retrieving medications from inventory;

(f) counting and pouring into containers;

(g) placing medications into patient storage containers;

(h) affixing labels;

(i) compounding;

(j) counseling for over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements under the direction of the supervising pharmacist as referenced in Subsection R156-17b-304(3)(ix);

(k) accepting new prescription drug orders telephonically or electronically submitted for a pharmacist to review; and

(l) additional tasks not requiring the judgment of a pharmacist.

(2) The pharmacy technician shall not receive new verbal prescriptions or medication orders, clarify prescriptions or medication orders nor perform drug utilization reviews.

(3) [The licensed pharmacist on duty can, at his discretion, provide on-site supervision for up to three pharmacy technicians, who are actually on duty at any one time, and only one of the three technicians can be unlicensed.]Pharmacy technicians, including no more than one pharmacy technician-in-training, shall be supervised on-site by a pharmacist in accordance with Subsection R156-17b-603(19).

 

R156-17b-602. Operating Standards - Pharmacy Intern[ - Scope of Practice].

A pharmacy intern may provide services including the practice of pharmacy under the supervision of an approved preceptor, as defined in Subsection 58-17b-102([51]50), provided the pharmacy intern met the criteria as established in Subsection R156-17b-[304(2)]306.

 

R156-17b-603. Operating Standards - Pharmacist-in-charge.

The [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall have the responsibility to oversee the implementation and adherence to pharmacy policies that address the following:

(1) assuring that pharmacists and pharmacy interns dispense drugs or devices, including:

(a) packaging, preparation, compounding and labeling; and

(b) ensuring that drugs are dispensed safely and accurately as prescribed;

(2) assuring that pharmacy personnel deliver drugs to the patient or the patient's agent, including ensuring that drugs are delivered safely and accurately as prescribed;

(3) assuring that a pharmacist, pharmacy intern or pharmacy technician communicates to the patient or the patient's agent information about the prescription drug or device or non-prescription products;

(4) assuring that a pharmacist or pharmacy intern communicates to the patient or the patient's agent, at their request, information concerning any prescription drugs dispensed to the patient by the pharmacist or pharmacy intern;

(5) assuring that a reasonable effort is made to obtain, record and maintain patient medication records;

(6) education and training of pharmacy technicians;

(7) establishment of policies for procurement of prescription drugs and devices and other products dispensed from the pharmacy;

(8) disposal and distribution of drugs from the pharmacy;

(9) bulk compounding of drugs;

(10) storage of all materials, including drugs, chemicals and biologicals;

(11) maintenance of records of all transactions of the pharmacy necessary to maintain accurate control over and accountability for all pharmaceutical materials required by applicable state and federal laws and regulations;

(12) establishment and maintenance of effective controls against theft or diversion of prescription drugs and records for such drugs;

(13) if records are kept on a data processing system, the maintenance of records stored in that system shall be in compliance with pharmacy requirements;

(14) legal operation of the pharmacy including meeting all inspection and other requirements of all state and federal laws, rules and regulations governing the practice of pharmacy;

(15) assuring that any automated pharmacy system is in good working order and accurately dispenses the correct strength, dosage form and quantity of the drug prescribed while maintaining appropriate record keeping and security safeguards;

(16) implementation of an ongoing quality assurance program that monitors performance of the automated pharmacy system, which is evidenced by written policies and procedures developed for pharmaceutical care;

(17) assuring that all relevant information is submitted to the Controlled Substance Database in the appropriate format and in a timely manner;[ and]

(18) assuring that all personnel working in the pharmacy have the appropriate licensure; and

(19) assuring that no pharmacy or pharmacist operates the pharmacy or allows operation of the pharmacy with a ratio of pharmacist to pharmacy technician/pharmacy intern/support personnel which, under the circumstances of the particular practice setting, results in, or reasonably would be expected to result in, an unreasonable risk of harm to public health, safety, and welfare; and

(20) assuring that the PIC assigned to the pharmacy is recorded with the Division.

 

R156-17b-604. Operating Standards - Closing a Pharmacy.

At least 14 days prior to the closing of a pharmacy, the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall comply with the following:

(1) If the pharmacy is registered to possess controlled substances, send a written notification to the appropriate regional office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) containing the following information:

(a) the name, address and DEA registration number of the pharmacy;

(b) the anticipated date of closing;

(c) the name, address and DEA registration number of the pharmacy acquiring the controlled substances; and

(d) the date on which the transfer of controlled substances will occur.

(2) If the pharmacy dispenses prescription drug orders, post a closing notice sign in a conspicuous place in the front of the prescription department and at all public entrance doors to the pharmacy. Such closing notice shall contain the following information:

(a) the date of closing; and

(b) the name, address and telephone number of the pharmacy acquiring the prescription drug orders, including refill information and patient medication records of the pharmacy.

(3) On the date of closing, the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall remove all prescription drugs from the pharmacy by one or a combination of the following methods:

(a) return prescription drugs to manufacturer or supplier for credit or disposal; or

(b) transfer, sell or give away prescription drugs to a person who is legally entitled to possess drugs, such as a hospital or another pharmacy.

(4) If the pharmacy dispenses prescription drug orders:

(a) transfer the prescription drug order files, including refill information and patient medication records, to a licensed pharmacy within a reasonable distance of the closing pharmacy; and

(b) move all signs or notify the landlord or owner of the property that it is unlawful to use the word "pharmacy", or any other word or combination of words of the same or similar meaning, or any graphic representation that would mislead or tend to mislead the public that a pharmacy is located at this address.

(5) Within 10 days of the closing of the pharmacy, the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall forward to the Division a written notice of the closing that includes the following information:

(a) the actual date of closing;

(b) the license issued to the pharmacy;

(c) a statement attesting:

(i) that an inventory as specified in Subsection R156-17b-605(6) has been conducted; and

(ii) the manner in which the legend drugs and controlled substances possessed by the pharmacy were transferred or disposed;

(d) if the pharmacy dispenses prescription drug orders, the name and address of the pharmacy to which the prescription drug orders, including refill information and patient medication records, were transferred.

(6) If the pharmacy is registered to possess controlled substances, a letter must be sent to the appropriate DEA regional office explaining that the pharmacy has closed. The letter shall include the following items:

(a) DEA registration certificate;

(b) all unused DEA order forms (Form 222) with the word "VOID" written on the face of each order form; and

(c) copy #2 of any DEA order forms (Form 222) used to transfer Schedule II controlled substances from the closed pharmacy.

(7) If the pharmacy is closed suddenly due to fire, destruction, natural disaster, death, property seizure, eviction, bankruptcy or other emergency circumstances and the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC cannot provide notification 14 days prior to the closing, the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall comply with the provisions of Subsection (1) as far in advance of the closing as allowed by the circumstances.

(8) If the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC is not available to comply with the requirements of this section, the owner or legal representative shall be responsible for compliance with the provisions of this section.

 

R156-17b-605. Operating Standards - Inventory Requirements.

(1) General requirements for inventory of a pharmacy shall include the following:

(a) the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall be responsible for taking all required inventories, but may delegate the performance of the inventory to another person or persons;

(b) the inventory records must be maintained for a period of five years and be readily available for inspection;

(c) the inventory records shall be filed separately from all other records;

(d) the inventory records shall be in a typewritten or printed form and include all stocks of controlled substances on hand on the date of the inventory including any that are out of date drugs and drugs in automated pharmacy systems. An inventory taken by use of a verbal recording device must be promptly transcribed;

(e) the inventory may be taken either as of the opening of the business or the close of business on the inventory date;

(f) the person taking the inventory and the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC shall indicate the time the inventory was taken and shall sign and date the inventory with the date the inventory was taken. The signature of the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC and the date of the inventory shall be documented within 72 hours or three working days of the completed initial, annual, change of ownership and closing inventory;

(g) the person taking the inventory shall make an exact count or measure all controlled substances listed in Schedule I or II;

(h) the person taking the inventory shall make an estimated count or measure all Schedule III, IV or V controlled substances, unless the container holds more than 1,000 tablets or capsules in which case an exact count of the contents must be made;

(i) the inventory of Schedule I and II controlled substances shall be listed separately from the inventory of Schedule III, IV and V controlled substances; and

(j) if the pharmacy maintains a perpetual inventory of any of the drugs required to be inventoried, the perpetual inventory shall be reconciled on the date of the inventory.

(2) Requirement for taking the initial inventory shall include the following:

(a) all pharmacies having any stock of controlled substances shall take an inventory on the opening day of business. Such inventory shall include all controlled substances including any out-of-date drugs and drugs in automated pharmacy systems;

(b) in the event a pharmacy commences business with none of the drugs specified in paragraph (2)(a) of this section on hand, the pharmacy shall record this fact as the initial inventory; and

(c) the initial inventory shall serve as the pharmacy's inventory until the next completed inventory as specified in Subsection (3) of this section.

(3) Requirement for annual inventory shall be within 12 months following the inventory date of each year and may be taken within four days of the specified inventory date and shall include all stocks including out-of-date drugs and drugs in automated pharmacy systems.

(4) Requirements for change of ownership shall include the following:

(a) a pharmacy that changes ownership shall take an inventory of all legend drugs and controlled substances including out-of-date drugs and drugs in automated pharmacy systems on the date of the change of ownership;

(b) such inventory shall constitute, for the purpose of this section, the closing inventory for the seller and the initial inventory for the buyer; and

(c) transfer of Schedule I and II controlled substances shall require the use of official DEA order forms (Form 222).

(5) Requirement for taking inventory when closing a pharmacy includes the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC, owner, or the legal representative of a pharmacy that ceases to operate as a pharmacy shall forward to the Division, within ten days of cessation of operation, a statement attesting that an inventory has been conducted, the date of closing and a statement attesting the manner by which legend drugs and controlled substances possessed by the pharmacy were transferred or disposed.

(6) Requirements specific to taking inventory in a Class B pharmacy shall include the following:

(a) all Class B pharmacies shall maintain a perpetual inventory of all Schedule II controlled substances which shall be reconciled according to facility policy; and

(b) the inventory of the institution shall be maintained in the pharmacy; if an inventory is conducted in other departments within the institution, the inventory shall be listed separately as follows:

(i) the inventory of drugs on hand in the pharmacy shall be listed separately from the inventory of drugs on hand in the other areas of the institution; and

(ii) the inventory of the drugs on hand in all other departments shall be identified by department.

(7) All out of date legend drugs and controlled substances shall be removed from the inventory at regular intervals and in correlation to the date of expiration imprinted on the label.

 

R156-17b-606. Operating Standards - Approved Preceptor.

In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-601(1), the operating standard s for a pharmacist acting as a preceptor include[s]:

(1) [supervising more than one intern; however, a preceptor may supervise only one intern actually on duty who is working for compensation in the practice of pharmacy at any one time. Interns who are doing educational, observational rotations can be supervised at two interns to one pharmacist ratio;]meeting the following criteria:

(a) hold a Utah pharmacist license that is active and in good standing;

(b) document engaging in active practice as a licensed pharmacist for not less than two years in any jurisdiction;

(c) not be under any sanction which, when considered by the Division and Board, would be of such a nature that the best interests of the intern and the public would not be served;

(d) provide direct, on-site supervision to no more than two pharmacy interns during a working shift; and

(e) refer to the intern training guidelines as outlined in the Pharmacy Coordinating Council of Utah Internship Competencies, October 12, 2004, as information about a range of best practices for training interns;

(2) maintaining adequate records to document the number of internship hours completed by the intern and evaluating the quality of the intern's performance during the internship;

(3) completing the preceptor section of a Utah Pharmacy Intern Experience Affidavit found in the application packet at the conclusion of the preceptor/intern relationship regardless of the time or circumstances under which that relationship is concluded; and

(4) being responsible for the intern's actions related to the practice of pharmacy while practicing as a pharmacy intern under supervision.

 

R156-17b-613. Operating Standards - Issuing Prescription Orders by Electronic Means.

In accordance with Subsections 58-17b-102(3) and 58-17b-601(1), prescription orders may be issued by electronic means of communication according to the following standards:

(1) Prescription orders for Schedule II - V controlled substances received by electronic means of communication shall be handled according to [Title 58, Chapter 37, Utah Controlled Substances Act and R156-37, Utah Controlled Substances Act Rules]Part 1304.04 of Section 21 of the CFR.

(2) Prescription orders for non-controlled substances received by electronic means of communication may be dispensed by a pharmacist or pharmacy intern only if all of the following conditions are satisfied:

(a) all electronically transmitted prescription orders shall include the following:

(i) all information that is required to be contained in a prescription order pursuant to Section 58-17b-602;

(ii) the time and date of the transmission, and if a facsimile transmission, the electronically encoded date, time and fax number of the sender; and

(iii) the name of the pharmacy intended to receive the transmission;

(b) the prescription order shall be transmitted under the direct supervision of the prescribing practitioner or his designated agent;

(c) the pharmacist shall exercise professional judgment regarding the accuracy and authenticity of the transmitted prescription. Practitioners or their agents transmitting medication orders using electronic equipment are to provide voice verification when requested by the pharmacist receiving the medication order. The pharmacist is responsible for assuring that each electronically transferred prescription order is valid and shall authenticate a prescription order issued by a prescribing practitioner which has been transmitted to the dispensing pharmacy before filling it, whenever there is a question;

(d) a practitioner may authorize an agent to electronically transmit a prescription provided that the identifying information of the transmitting agent is included on the transmission. The practitioner's electronic signature, or other secure method of validation, shall be provided with the electronic prescription; and

(e) an electronically transmitted prescription order that meets the requirements above shall be deemed to be the original prescription.

(3) This section does not apply to the use of electronic equipment to transmit prescription orders within inpatient medical facilities.

(4) No agreement between a prescribing practitioner and a pharmacy shall require that prescription orders be transmitted by electronic means from the prescribing practitioner to that pharmacy only.

(5) The pharmacist shall retain a printed copy of an electronic prescription, or a record of an electronic prescription that is readily retrievable and printable, for a minimum of five years. The printed copy shall be of non-fading legibility.

(6) Wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers, pharmacists and pharmacies shall not supply electronic equipment to any prescriber for transmitting prescription orders.

(7) An electronically transmitted prescription order shall be transmitted to the pharmacy of the patient's choice.

(8) Prescription orders electronically transmitted to the pharmacy by the patient shall not be filled or dispensed.

(9) A prescription order for a legend drug or controlled substance in Schedule III through V may be transferred up to the maximum refills permitted by law or by the prescriber by electronic transmission providing the pharmacies share a real-time, on-line database provided that:

(a) the information required to be on the transferred prescription has the same information as described in Subsection R156-17b-612(5)(a) through (f); and

(b) pharmacists, pharmacy interns or pharmacy technicians electronically accessing the same prescription drug order records may electronically transfer prescription information if the data processing system has a mechanism to send a message to the transferring pharmacy containing the following information:

(i) the fact that the prescription drug order was transferred;

(ii) the unique identification number of the prescription drug order transferred;

(iii) the name of the pharmacy to which it was transferred; and

(iv) the date and time of the transfer.

 

R156-17b-614a . Operating Standards - Operating Standards, Class A and B Pharmacy.

(1) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-601(1), standards for the operations for a Class A and Class B pharmacy include:

(a) shall be well lighted, well ventilated, clean and sanitary;

(b) the dispensing area, if any, shall have a sink with hot and cold culinary water separate and apart from any restroom facilities. This does not apply to clean rooms where sterile products are prepared. Clean rooms should not have sinks or floor drains that expose the area to an open sewer. All required equipment shall be clean and in good operating condition;

(c) be equipped to permit the orderly storage of prescription drugs and devices in a manner to permit clear identification, separation and easy retrieval of products and an environment necessary to maintain the integrity of the product inventory;

(d) be equipped to permit practice within the standards and ethics of the profession as dictated by the usual and ordinary scope of practice to be conducted within that facility;

(e) be stocked with the quality and quantity of product necessary for the facility to meet its scope of practice in a manner consistent with the public health, safety and welfare; and

(f) be equipped with a security system to permit detection of entry at all times when the facility is closed.

(2) The temperature of the pharmacy shall be maintained within a range compatible with the proper storage of drugs. The temperature of the refrigerator and freezer shall be maintained within a range compatible with the proper storage of drugs requiring refrigeration or freezing.

(3) Facilities engaged in extensive compounding activities shall be required to maintain proper records and procedure manuals and establish quality control measures to ensure stability, equivalency where applicable and sterility. The following requirements shall be met:

(a) must follow USP-NF Chapter 795, compounding of non-sterile preparations, and USP-NF Chapter 797 if compounding sterile preparations;

(b) may compound in anticipation of receiving prescriptions in limited amounts;

(c) bulk active ingredients must be component of FDA approved drugs listed in the approved drug products prepared by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research of the FDA;

(d) compounding using drugs that are not part of a FDA approved drug listed in the approved drug products prepared by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research of the FDA requires an investigational new drug application (IND). The IND approval shall be kept in the pharmacy for five years for inspection;

(e) a master worksheet sheet shall be developed and approved by a pharmacist for each batch of sterile or non-sterile pharmaceuticals to be prepared. Once approved, a duplicate of the master worksheet sheet shall be used as the preparation worksheet sheet from which each batch is prepared and on which all documentation for that batch occurs. The master worksheet sheet shall contain at a minimum:

(i) the formula;

(ii) the components;

(iii) the compounding directions;

(iv) a sample label;

(v) evaluation and testing requirements;

(vi) sterilization methods, if applicable;

(vii) specific equipment used during preparation such as specific compounding device; and

(viii) storage requirements;

(f) a preparation worksheet sheet for each batch of sterile or non-sterile pharmaceuticals shall document the following:

(i) identity of all solutions and ingredients and their corresponding amounts, concentrations, or volumes;

(ii) manufacturer lot number for each component;

(iii) component manufacturer or suitable identifying number;

(iv) container specifications (e.g. syringe, pump cassette);

(v) unique lot or control number assigned to batch;

(vi) expiration date of batch prepared products;

(vii) date of preparation;

(viii) name, initials or electronic signature of the person or persons involved in the preparation;

(ix) names, initials or electronic signature of the responsible pharmacist;

(x) end-product evaluation and testing specifications, if applicable; and

(xi) comparison of actual yield to anticipated yield, when appropriate;

(g) the label of each batch prepared of sterile or non-sterile pharmaceuticals shall bear at a minimum:

(i) the unique lot number assigned to the batch;

(ii) all solution and ingredient names, amounts, strengths and concentrations, when applicable;

(iii) quantity;

(iv) expiration date and time, when applicable;

(v) appropriate ancillary instructions, such as storage instructions or cautionary statements, including cytotoxic warning labels where appropriate; and

(vi) device-specific instructions, where appropriate;

(h) the expiration date assigned shall be based on currently available drug stability information and sterility considerations or appropriate in-house or contract service stability testing;

(i) sources of drug stability information shall include the following:

(A) references can be found in Trissel's "Handbook on Injectable Drugs", 13th Edition, 2004;

(B) manufacturer recommendations; and

(C) reliable, published research;

(ii) when interpreting published drug stability information, the pharmacist shall consider all aspects of the final sterile product being prepared such as drug reservoir, drug concentration and storage conditions; and

(iii) methods for establishing expiration dates shall be documented; and

(i) there shall be a documented, ongoing quality control program that monitors and evaluates personnel performance, equipment and facilities that follows the USP-NF Chapters 795 and 797 standards.

(4) The facility shall have current and retrievable editions of the following reference publications in print or electronic format and readily available and retrievable to facility personnel:

(a) Title 58, Chapter 1, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing Act'

(b) R156-1, General Rules of the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing;

(c) Title 58, Chapter 17b, Pharmacy Practice Act;

(d) R156-17b, Utah Pharmacy Practice Act Rule;

(e) Title 58, Chapter 37, Utah Controlled Substances Act;

(f) R156-37, Utah Controlled Substances Act Rules;

(g) Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 21, Food and Drugs, Part 1300 to end or equivalent such as the USP DI Drug Reference Guides;

(h) current FDA Approved Drug Products (orange book); and

(i) any other general drug references necessary to permit practice dictated by the usual and ordinary scope of practice to be conducted within that facility.

(5) The facility shall post the license of the facility and the license or a copy of the license of each pharmacist, pharmacy intern and pharmacy technician who is employed in the facility, but may not post the license of any pharmacist, pharmacy intern or pharmacy technician not actually employed in the facility.

(6) Facilities shall have a counseling area to allow for confidential patient counseling, where applicable.

(7) If the pharmacy is located within a larger facility such as a grocery or department store, and a licensed Utah pharmacist is not immediately available in the facility, the pharmacy shall not remain open to pharmacy patients and shall be locked in such a way as to bar entry to the public or any non-pharmacy personnel. All pharmacies located within a larger facility shall be locked and enclosed in such a way as to bar entry by the public or any non-pharmacy personnel when the pharmacy is closed.

(8) Only a licensed Utah pharmacist or authorized pharmacy personnel shall have access to the pharmacy when the pharmacy is closed.

(9) The facility shall maintain a permanent log of the initials or identification codes which identify each dispensing pharmacist by name. The initials or identification code shall be unique to ensure that each pharmacist can be identified; therefore identical initials or identification codes shall not be used.

(10) The pharmacy facility must maintain copy 3 of DEA order form (Form 222) which has been properly dated, initialed and filed and all copies of each unaccepted or defective order form and any attached statements or other documents.

(11) If applicable, a hard copy of the power of attorney authorizing a pharmacist to sign DEA order forms (Form 222) must be available to the Division whenever necessary.

(12) Pharmacists or other responsible individuals shall verify that the suppliers' invoices of legend drugs, including controlled substances, are listed on the invoices and were actually received by clearly recording their initials and the actual date of receipt of the controlled substances.

(13) The pharmacy facility must maintain a record of suppliers' credit memos for controlled substances and legend drugs.

(14) A copy of inventories required under Section R156-17b-605 must be made available to the Division when requested.

(15) The pharmacy facility must maintain hard copy reports of surrender or destruction of controlled substances and legend drugs submitted to appropriate state or federal agencies.

 

R156-17b-614[a]b . Operating Standards - Class B pharmacy designated as a Branch Pharmacy.

In accordance with Subsections 58-17b-102(7) and 58-1-301(3), the qualifications for designation as a branch pharmacy include the following:

(1) The Division, in collaboration with the Board, shall approve the location of each branch pharmacy. The following shall be considered in granting such designation:

(a) the distance between or from nearby alternative pharmacies and all other factors affecting access of persons in the area to alternative pharmacy resources;

(b) the availability at the location of qualified persons to staff the pharmacy, including the physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse;

(c) the availability and willingness of a parent pharmacy and supervising pharmacist to assume responsibility for the branch pharmacy;

(d) the availability of satisfactory physical facilities in which the branch pharmacy may operate; and

(e) the totality of conditions and circumstances which surround the request for designation.

(2) A branch pharmacy shall be licensed as a pharmacy branch of an existing Class A or B pharmacy licensed by the Division.

(3) The application for designation of a branch pharmacy shall be submitted by the licensed parent pharmacy seeking such designation. In the event that more than one licensed pharmacy makes application for designation of a branch pharmacy location at a previously undesignated location, the Division in collaboration with the Board shall review all applications for designation of the branch pharmacy and, if the location is approved, shall approve for licensure the applicant determined best able to serve the public interest as identified in Subsection (1).

(4) The application shall include the following:

(a) complete identifying information concerning the applying parent pharmacy;

(b) complete identifying information concerning the designated supervising pharmacist employed at the parent pharmacy;

(c) address and description of the facility in which the branch pharmacy is to be located;

(d) specific formulary to be stocked indicating with respect to each prescription drug, the name, the dosage strength and dosage units in which the drug will be prepackaged;

(e) complete identifying information concerning each person located at the branch pharmacy who will dispense prescription drugs in accordance with the approved protocol; and

(f) protocols under which the branch pharmacy will operate and its relationship with the parent pharmacy to include the following:

(i) the conditions under which prescription drugs will be stored, used and accounted for;

(ii) the method by which the drugs will be transported from parent pharmacy to the branch pharmacy and accounted for by the branch pharmacy; and

(iii) a description of how records will be kept with respect to:

(A) formulary;

(B) changes in formulary;

(C) record of drugs sent by the parent pharmacy;

(D) record of drugs received by the branch pharmacy;

(E) record of drugs dispensed;

(F) periodic inventories; and

(G) any other record contributing to an effective audit trail with respect to prescription drugs provided to the branch pharmacy.[

 

R156-17b-614b. Operating Standards - Class B - Sterile Pharmaceuticals.

In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-601(1), the USP-NF Chapter 797, Compounding for Sterile Preparations, shall apply to all pharmacies preparing sterile pharmaceuticals.]

 

R156-17b-614d. Operating Standards - Class B - Nuclear Pharmacy.

In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-601(1), the operating standards for a Class B pharmacy designated as a nuclear pharmacy shall have the following:

(1) A nuclear pharmacy shall have the following:

(a) have applied for or possess a current Utah Radioactive Materials License; and

(b) adequate space and equipment commensurate with the scope of services required and provided.

(2) Nuclear pharmacies shall only dispense radiopharmaceuticals that comply with acceptable standards of quality assurance.

(3) Nuclear pharmacies shall maintain a library commensurate with the level of radiopharmaceutical service to be provided.

(4) A licensed Utah pharmacist shall be immediately available on the premises at all times when the facility is open or available to engage in the practice of pharmacy.

(5) In addition to Utah licensure, the pharmacist shall have classroom and laboratory training and experience as required by the Utah Radiation Control Rules.

(6) This rule does not prohibit:

(a) a licensed pharmacy intern or technician from acting under the direct supervision of an approved preceptor who meets the requirements to supervise a nuclear pharmacy; or

(b) a Utah Radioactive Materials license from possessing and using radiopharmaceuticals for medical use.

(7) A hospital nuclear medicine department or an office of a physician/surgeon, osteopathic physician/surgeon, veterinarian, pediatric physician or dentist that has a current Utah Radioactive Materials License does not require licensure as a Class B pharmacy.

(8) A nuclear pharmacy preparing sterile compounds must follow the USP-NF Chapter 797 Compound for sterile preparations.

(9) A nuclear pharmacy preparing medications for a specific person shall be licensed as a Class B - nuclear pharmacy if located in Utah, and as a Class D pharmacy if located outside of Utah.

 

R156-17b-616. Operating Standards - Class D Pharmacy - Out of State Mail Order Pharmacies.

(1) In accordance with Subsections 58-1-301(3) and 58-17b-306(2), an application for licensure as a Class D pharmacy shall include:

(a) a pharmacy care protocol that includes the operating standards established in Subsections R156-17b-610(1) and (8) and R156-17b-614(1) through (4);

(b) a copy of the pharmacist's license for the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC; and

(c) a copy of the most recent state inspection showing the status of compliance with the laws and regulations for physical facility, records and operations.

(2) An out of state mail order pharmacy that compounds must follow the USP-NF Chapter 795 Compounding of non-sterile preparations and Chapter 797 Compounding of sterile preparations.

 

R156-17b-617. Operating Standards - Class E pharmacy.

(1) In accordance with Section 58-17b-302 and Subsection 58-17b-601(1), the operating standards for a Class E pharmacy shall include a written pharmacy care protocol which includes:

(a) the identity of the supervisor or director;

(b) a detailed plan of care;

(c) identity of the drugs that will be purchased, stored, used and accounted for; and

(d) identity of any licensed healthcare provider associated with operation.

(2) A Class E pharmacy preparing sterile compounds must follow the USP-NF Chapter 797 Compounding for sterile preparations.

 

R156-17b-618. Change in Ownership or Location.

(1)(a) In accordance with Section 58-17b-614, except for changes in ownership caused by a change in the stockholders in corporations which are publicly listed and whose stock is publicly traded, a licensed pharmaceutical facility that proposes to change its location or ownership shall make application for a new license and receive approval from the [d]Division prior to the proposed change.

(b) Upon approval of the change in ownership or location, the original licenses shall be surrendered to the [d]Division.

(2)(a) In accordance with Section 58-17b-614, a licensed pharmaceutical facility that proposes to change its names without a change in ownership shall submit the request in writing upon a form provided by the [d]Division, no later than ten business days before the proposed name change. The request for a name change must be approved by the [d]Division prior to implementing the change.

(b) Upon approval of the name change, the original licenses shall be surrendered to the [d]Division.

 

R156-17b-620. Operating Standards - Automated Pharmacy System.

In accordance with Section 58-17b-621, automated pharmacy systems can be utilized in licensed pharmacies, remote locations under the jurisdiction of the Division and licensed health care facilities where legally permissible and shall comply with the following provisions:

(1) Documentation as to type of equipment, serial numbers, content, policies and procedures and location shall be maintained on site in the pharmacy for review upon request of the Division. Such documentation shall include:

(a) name and address of the pharmacy or licensed health care facility where the automated pharmacy system is being used;

(b) manufacturer's name and model;

(c) description of how the device is used;

(d) quality assurance procedures to determine continued appropriate use of the automated device; and

(e) policies and procedures for system operation, safety, security, accuracy, patient confidentiality, access and malfunction.

(2) Automated pharmacy systems should be used only in settings where there is an established program of pharmaceutical care that ensures that before dispensing, or removal from an automated storage and distribution device, a pharmacist reviews all prescription or medication orders unless a licensed independent practitioner controls the ordering, preparation and administration of the medication; or in urgent situations when the resulting delay would harm the patient including situations in which the patient experiences a sudden change in clinical status.

(3) All policies and procedures must be maintained in the pharmacy responsible for the system and, if the system is not located within the facility where the pharmacy is located, at the location where the system is being used.

(4) Automated pharmacy systems shall have:

(a) adequate security systems and procedures to:

(i) prevent unauthorized access;

(ii) comply with federal and state regulations; and

(iii) prevent the illegal use or disclosure of protected health information;

(b) written policies and procedures in place prior to installation to ensure safety, accuracy, security, training of personnel, and patient confidentiality and to define access and limits to access to equipment and medications.

(5) Records and electronic data kept by automated pharmacy systems shall meet the following requirements:

(a) all events involving the contents of the automated pharmacy system must be recorded electronically;

(b) records must be maintained by the pharmacy for a period of five years and must be readily available to the Division. Such records shall include:

(i) identity of system accessed;

(ii) identify of the individual accessing the system;

(iii) type of transaction;

(iv) name, strength, dosage form and quantity of the drug accessed;

(v) name of the patient for whom the drug was ordered; and

(vi) such additional information as the [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC may deem necessary.

(6) Access to and limits on access to the automated pharmacy system must be defined by policy and procedures and must comply with state and federal regulations.

(7) The [pharmacist-in-charge]PIC or pharmacist designee shall have the sole responsibility to:

(a) assign, discontinue or change access to the system;

(b) ensure that access to the medications comply with state and federal regulations; and

(c) ensure that the automated pharmacy system is filled and stocked accurately and in accordance with established written policies and procedures.

(8) The filling and stocking of all medications in the automated pharmacy system shall be accomplished by qualified licensed healthcare personnel under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

(9) A record of medications filled and stocked into an automated pharmacy system shall be maintained for a period of five years and shall include the identification of the persons filling, stocking and checking for accuracy.

(10) All containers of medications stored in the automated pharmacy system shall be packaged and labeled in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations.

(11) All aspects of handling controlled substances shall meet the requirements of all state and federal laws and regulations.

(12) The automated pharmacy system shall provide a mechanism for securing and accounting for medications removed from and subsequently returned to the automated pharmacy system, all in accordance with existing state and federal law. Written policies and procedures shall address situations in which medications removed from the system remain unused and must be secured and accounted for.

(13) The automated pharmacy system shall provide a mechanism for securing and accounting for wasted medications or discarded medications in accordance with existing state and federal law. Written policies and procedures shall address situations in which medications removed from the system are wasted or discarded and must be secured.

 

R156-17b-621. Operating Standards - Pharmacist Administration - Training.

(1) In accordance with Subsection 58-17b-502(9), appropriate training for the administration of a prescription drug includes:

(a) current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; and

(b) successful completion of a training program which includes at a minimum:

(i) didactic and practical training for administering injectable drugs;

(ii) the current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for the administration of immunizations; and

(iii) the management of an anaphylactic reaction.

(2) Sources for the appropriate training include:

(a) ACPE approved programs; and

(b) curriculum-based programs from an ACPE accredited college of pharmacy, state or local health department programs and other [b]Board recognized providers.

(3) Training is to be supplemented by documentation of two hours of continuing education related to the area of practice in each preceding renewal period.

 

KEY: pharmacists, licensing, pharmacies

Date of Enactment or Last Substantive Amendment: [July 9, 2009]2010

Notice of Continuation: February 23, 2010

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 58-17b-101; 58-17b-601(1); 58-37-1; 58-1-106(1)(a); 58-1-202(1)(a)

 


Additional Information

The Portable Document Format (PDF) version of the Bulletin is the official version. The PDF version of this issue is available at https://rules.utah.gov/publicat/bull-pdf/2010/b20100601.pdf. The HTML edition of the Bulletin is a convenience copy. Any discrepancy between the PDF version and HTML version is resolved in favor of the PDF version.

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For questions regarding the content or application of this rule, please contact Laura Poe at the above address, by phone at 801-530-6789, by FAX at 801-530-6511, or by Internet E-mail at lpoe@utah.gov.