Bill > A00623

This bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework for telepharmacy in New York, which allows pharmacies to operate remote sites connected to a central pharmacy through computer, video, and audio links. The bill defines several key terms, including "remote site" (a pharmacy staffed by registered pharmacy technicians connected to a main pharmacy), "satellite consultation site" (a location where pre-filled prescriptions are dispensed), and "telepharmacy" (a central pharmacy with connected remote sites). The legislation outlines detailed requirements for remote pharmacy operations, including: mandatory connections between central and remote sites, prescription record-keeping protocols, pharmacist oversight and verification procedures, patient counseling via video and audio links, monthly site inspections, controlled substance handling, and specific conditions under which dispensing can occur when a licensed pharmacist is not physically present. The bill also establishes provisions for telepharmacy in hospital settings and creates rules for prescription dispensing through automated machines. Importantly, the state board of pharmacy is granted the authority to immediately suspend a telepharmacy permit if a public safety risk is identified, providing a mechanism for regulatory oversight of these new pharmacy service models.