Missouri News: Compliance Advisory

November 1, 2009 3:53 pm Topics: Pharmacy technicians and Pharmacist in charge

Published in the November 2009 Missouri Board of Pharmacy Newsletter

The Board continues to see noncompliance issues relating to technician registrations. The pharmacist-in-charge (PIC) should ensure that all technicians are properly registered. Pharmacies cannot employ a technician whose name appears on the Board’s Employment Disqualification List. Licensees are encouraged to regularly check the current Employment Disqualification List at http://pr.mo.gov/boards/pharmacy/disqlist.pdf. The Board also issues e-mail alert notifications when new technicians are added to the Employment Disqualification List. Licensees can register for the Board’s e-alerts by e-mailing MissouriBOPNewsletter@nabp.net.

In addition to verifying registration, the PIC must maintain a current list of pharmacy technicians and their job descriptions. Besides those assisting in the practice of pharmacy, any person other than a pharmacist or permit holder who has independent access to legend drug stock on a routine basis in a pharmacy must register as a pharmacy technician.

Pharmacies and hospitals are also reminded that they are required under §338.013.10, RSMo, to report any final disciplinary action taken against a technician based on any complaints or reports involving activity that may constitute grounds for discipline under §338.055.2. Such activity may include, but is not limited to, action taken based on alleged diversion, forgery, or theft or stealing of drug or non-drug related items. Please note that a report must be filed with the Board even if the technician is allowed to voluntarily resign in lieu of formal discipline or termination. The full text of Chapter 338, RSMo, and the rules of the Board can be found at http://pr.mo.gov/pharmacists-rules-statutes.asp.