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Vermont News: Prescription Monitoring Program Update
Published in the September 2009 Vermont Board of Pharmacy Newsletter
The Vermont Department of Health, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs’ Web site for the Vermont Prescription Monitoring Program is up and running. The Vermont Prescription Monitoring System (VPMS) became fully operational in April 2009. Pharmacies have been required to report all their Schedule II, III, and IV prescriptions dispensed to the VPMS database since January 2009. For detailed information on the program and also how to register so that you can access the system, go to the Vermont Department of Health’s Web site, or for the direct link visit www.healthvermont.gov/adap/VPMS.aspx. The Board encourages pharmacists to register for access to the monitoring system and to help inform prescribers about the system. This program is an excellent tool to prevent prescription medication diversion and abuse. As a health care provider, it is important to be aware of the increasing problem with prescription drug abuse; preventing or stopping this abuse is an essential part of patient care. Pharmacists play a vital role in preventing prescription drug abuse. Physicians are the gatekeepers to access, but the pharmacist also plays an important role in ensuring that the medication is being used appropriately. The VPMS may provide essential information in order for the health care provider to determine if a medication is for a legitimate medical purpose. Pharmacists and prescribers who utilize the database and identify cases of drug abuse or misuse may share that information with other pharmacists and prescribers who are providing health care to the patient in question. If you have difficulties in registering, e-mail vpms@vdh.state.vt.us.
