National Association Of Chain Drug Stores Statement On The Importance Of Pharmacy Records To Patient Care, USA

The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) released the following statement in response to a press conference by Sen. Charles E. Schumer (NY) regarding the transfer of patient records from a pharmacy that is going out of business to another licensed pharmacy, in accordance with the law:

"Community pharmacy is committed to patient privacy, and complies with extensive legal requirements and company-specific policies to safeguard patient information. Pharmacies are regulated by state boards of pharmacy, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and other agencies".

"The practice of transferring patient records from a pharmacy that is going out of business to another licensed pharmacy is essential to patient care. Pharmacists are recognized under state and federal laws as health care providers, and pharmacists protect patient privacy as trusted health care professionals. Community pharmacy delivers substantial value for patient care beyond dispensing medication. Community pharmacy fosters adherence to their prescription drug therapy, assists patients with management of their medical and health conditions, advises patients and physicians on proper prescription drug use and monitors for potential drug interactions. The maintenance of patient records is essential to patient convenience in obtaining their medications, but also to these additional vital community pharmacy services".

"In fact, to serve the interests of patients, the law requires the maintenance of patient records in the event that a pharmacy ceases operations. It is common, desirable and required that a pharmacy transfer records to another licensed pharmacy, both of which are bound by state and federal privacy laws, to allow for patients to continue their prescription drug treatment.

"As always, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores stands ready to evaluate matters of public policy when there is an opportunity to improve the status quo on behalf of patients and the practice of pharmacy. We appreciate the positive statements that Senator Schumer has made in the past regarding the value of community pharmacy, and we maintain that, in principle, maintaining the continuity of patient records is a reflection of community pharmacy's vital role."

source:www.medicalnewstoday.com