Bill > SB421

This bill allows pharmacists licensed in Virginia to remotely oversee and verify the dispensing of medications for opioid use disorder, such as methadone, at federally certified opioid treatment programs, enabling them to provide counseling and supervision through real-time audiovisual communication even when not physically present. This means that pharmacy technicians or other authorized personnel can dispense these crucial medications under the remote guidance of a pharmacist, provided the pharmacist is licensed, immediately available via audiovisual means, performs all necessary professional judgment functions before dispensing, and the opioid treatment program meets all federal requirements. The bill also directs the Board of Pharmacy to establish regulations for the technology, training, documentation, patient privacy, and pharmacist-in-charge responsibilities related to this remote practice, while clarifying that this does not mandate remote supervision or limit the Board's enforcement powers.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB421