Florida Board of Pharmacy approves controlled substance amendment

The Florida Board of Pharmacy recently approved an amendment to Rule 64B16-27.831, Florida Administrative Code, in order to clarify the filling of controlled substance prescriptions for pharmacists.

Effective Dec. 24th, the ruling will assist in the ever-evolving education of Florida pharmacists and implement new comprehensive controlled medication guidelines. Consequently, the amendment will allow pharmacists to fill valid patient prescriptions with greater efficiency.

“The Department is dedicated to making sure that Florida patients have access to needed medications,” State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. John Armstrong said. “I applaud the diligent work the Board of Pharmacy is doing to address this issue and help Florida’s families.”

Over the last few months, the Board of Pharmacy has held numerous public meetings that included input from doctors, patients and pharmacists. Furthermore, the board will continue to discuss new and innovative ideas for improving patient access to certain controlled medications.

Consisting of term members appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate, the Florida Board of Pharmacy is responsible for the licensure, monitoring and education of pharmacy professionals. These nine board members work to ensure safe practices among Florida pharmacists while promoting and improving the health of all patients in the state of Florida.