Connecticut House Bill HB05359

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/29/12
• Refer: 2/29/12

Caption

An Act Requiring Pharmacies To Verify The Identity Of Persons Making Telephonic Prescription Requests.

Impact

The legislation will amend existing state laws to introduce a requirement that could significantly affect how pharmacies operate. By mandating a verification process for telephonic prescription requests, the bill aims to establish a more secure environment for dispensing medications. This could lead to increased operational procedures within pharmacies, as they will need to implement systems to confirm the identities of prescribing practitioners. The implications extend to both the administrative burden on pharmacies and the overall accountability within pharmaceutical practices.

Summary

House Bill 05359 is designed to enhance the integrity of prescription requests made via telephone by requiring pharmacies to verify the identity of individuals making such requests. Effective July 1, 2012, the bill stipulates that pharmacies may only accept telephonic requests for prescriptions when they have verified that the individual making the request is a prescribing practitioner authorized by law to do so. This change aims to prevent potential prescription fraud and ensure that only legitimate requests are processed, thereby enhancing patient safety.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 05359 may arise from the potential impact on patient access to medications. While supporters argue that increased verification measures will reduce fraud and protect patients, critics may raise concerns regarding possible delays in access to prescribed medications, especially for patients who rely on telephonic communication to order their prescriptions. Therefore, balancing these interests will be critical as the bill progresses through the legislative process.