PharmScript Offers Guidance on How Healthcare Facilities Can Donate Unused Drugs for Redistribution
Edison, NJ (PRWEB) October 25, 2013 -- Each year, millions of dollars of unused pharmaceuticals go to waste.
Now, PharmScript advises, there is a solution.
Many states are now participating in the Drug Repository Program through which drugs that used to be destroyed by health care facilities are instead being turned in to approved sites where they are then recycled and redistributed to individuals in need who meet eligibility criteria established by the state.
The state of Ohio became the first state in the nation to establish a drug repository program in 2002 via what is known as Karon’s Law. The legislation was inspired by the efforts of Garry Beltz, a constituent whose wife, Karon, died of cancer at home under the care of Hospice with $6,000 worth of unused prescriptions remaining. Mr. Beltz wanted to donate his wife’s unused medications, but law prohibited it. He continued his efforts for three years, which resulted in Karon’s Law, named for his late wife.
“Our society prides itself on ‘going green’ and conservation in every other facet of life, yet with this one particular aspect, waste and destruction are commonplace, standard and even expected,” said Saul Greenberger, founder of PharmScript. "If you don’t like to waste valuable resources, especially those as in demand as medication, reach out to elected officials and health care associations in your region and see if your state already has or is considering adopting the Drug Repository Program which makes it possible to recycle and re-use much needed medications.”
Millions of dollars of drugs previously thrown away are now re-prescribed for income-eligible people in need.
Each participating state has their own program guidelines, but general standards include the following requirements:
• Must be in original sealed unit dose packaging
• Must have in excess of six months to expire
• May be donated at a pharmacy, hospital, or clinic that elects to participate in the program
• May not be resold, but handling fee can be charged
Each state also sets the following rules:
• Eligibility criteria for pharmacies, hospitals, and nonprofit clinics to participate
• Standards and procedures for accepting, storing, and dispensing donated drugs
• Standards and procedures for inspecting donated drugs
• Eligibility standards based on economic need
Participants in the Drug Repository Program are not, in the absence of bad faith, subject to criminal prosecution, liability in tort or other civil action for injury, death, or loss to person or property, or professional disciplinary action.
To read more helpful tips on how to maximize the pharmacy experience, visit PharmScript’s learning center at http://www.pharmscript.com/learning.html.
About PharmScript:
The unique principles upon which PharmScript was founded were based on years of invaluable experience in the long-term care industry. Comprised of a reputable and experienced management team, PharmScript is geared toward providing the ultimate pharmacy experience utilizing cutting-edge technology, impeccable customer service, and assisting facilities in saving on pharmacy costs. Pharmscript currently services New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington DC, Maryland, Florida and Texas.
Saul Greenberger, Pharmscript, http://www.pharmscript.com, 888-319-1818, [email protected]
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