This AFL updates and clarifies the requirements enacted by SB 1039 (Chapter 319, Statutes of 2014), effective January 1, 2015, that expanded the scope of practice for pharmacy technicians and intern pharmacists.

Facilities do not need to request program flexibility to allow pharmacy technicians and intern pharmacists to operate within their scope of practice, as outlined in BPC 4115, 4119.6 and 4119.7.

A pharmacy technician, working under the direct supervision and control of a pharmacist in a GACH, is authorized to perform any of the following duties:

• package emergency supplies for use in the GACH and the hospital’s emergency medical system, or as authorized by BPC section 4119 regarding the furnishing of dangerous drugs/devices for emergency pharmaceutical supply containers,
• seal emergency containers for use in the GACH, and
• perform monthly checks of the drug supplies stored throughout the GACH, with irregularities being reported within 24 hours to the pharmacist in charge and the director or the chief executive officer of the facility in accordance with the facility’s policies and procedures (P&Ps).

An intern pharmacist, working under the direct supervision and control of a pharmacist in a GACH, is authorized perform any of the following duties:

• stock, replenish, and inspect the emergency pharmaceutical supplies container and the emergency medical system supplies of a GACH, and
• inspect the drugs maintained in the GACH at least once per month, with the facility being required to establish specific written P&Ps for such inspections.

The remaining content in AFL 14-34 is still valid. If you have any questions, please contact LNC-PHARM-Consult@cdph.ca.gov.  

Sincerely,

Original signed by Jean Iacino

Jean Iacino
Deputy Director