New Jersey Board Provides Guidance for Pharmacists to Address Patient Needs in Aftermath of Hurricane Sandy

November 7, 2012 11:33 AM

The New Jersey State Board of Pharmacy is providing a directive to assist pharmacists in New Jersey as they face unique needs while serving patients during the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. The Board advises pharmacists to use their expertise and professional judgment during this emergency and to follow the steps provided in the guidance document to help ensure the goal of serving patient health and safety. The directive includes guidelines for the following:

• quarantining stock affected by temperature variations, water penetration, or other contamination or stability issues;
• dispensing refills for individuals who do not have access to their local pharmacy;
• establishing a mobile pharmacy and notifying the Board;
• transferring medications between pharmacies to ensure the continued supply of medication to patients; and
• dispensing a 30-day supply of medication at a hospital pharmacy when the patient’s local pharmacy is not accessible.

The directive expires on November 30, 2012, but will be reviewed by the Board and extended if circumstances require. The Board notes that this guidance is intended for health care providers involved in providing pharmacy-related services to patients, and that a separate alert will be released by the Division of Consumer Affairs to consumers, directing them to contact their pharmacist if they are having problems obtaining their medications related to the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.