Bill > SB421

This bill allows pharmacists licensed in Virginia to provide services remotely to federally certified opioid treatment programs, specifically for dispensing medications used to manage opioid use disorder, such as methadone. This means a pharmacist can remotely verify the accuracy of dispensed medications and provide necessary counseling to patients through real-time, two-way audiovisual communication, even if they are not physically present at the treatment program's location. This remote supervision and verification can occur during the program's operating hours, provided a pharmacy technician or other authorized personnel is dispensing the medication on-site. The bill outlines conditions for this remote practice, including the pharmacist being licensed and in good standing in Virginia, immediately available via audiovisual communication for visual supervision, and performing all required professional judgment functions before dispensing. It also mandates that the opioid treatment program must comply with all federal requirements. The Board of Pharmacy will establish regulations covering technology standards, personnel training, documentation, patient privacy, and how a pharmacist can oversee multiple pharmacies within an opioid treatment program, potentially requiring monthly on-site visits. This new provision is an exception to the general rule that a pharmacy must be under the personal supervision of a pharmacist on the premises.