Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 480 - RULES OF GEORGIA STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY
Department 480 — Rules of Georgia State Board of Pharmacy
Overview
The Georgia State Board of Pharmacy regulates the practice of pharmacy and the distribution of pharmaceuticals within Georgia. The rules under Department 480 ensure that pharmacy professionals and establishments operate safely, ethically, and in compliance with state laws to protect public health.
Key Areas Covered by the Rules:
1. Licensing and Registration
The Board issues licenses to pharmacists, pharmacy interns, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacies.
Requirements for licensure include education, examinations, background checks, and continuing education.
Licenses must be renewed periodically, with specific continuing education requirements to maintain active status.
2. Pharmacy Practice Standards
Defines the scope of practice for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
Establishes rules for dispensing, compounding, and labeling of medications.
Sets standards for patient counseling and confidentiality.
Requires pharmacists to ensure the accuracy and safety of prescriptions before dispensing.
3. Facility Requirements
Licenses and regulates physical pharmacy locations, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and wholesale distributors.
Sets standards for storage, security, sanitation, and record-keeping within pharmacy facilities.
Requires pharmacies to have adequate equipment, staff, and policies to comply with legal and safety standards.
4. Controlled Substances Regulation
Implements state and federal laws related to the handling, storage, prescribing, and dispensing of controlled substances.
Requires accurate record-keeping, reporting, and secure storage to prevent diversion and misuse.
Sets protocols for handling suspected prescription fraud or abuse.
5. Disciplinary Actions
The Board has the authority to investigate complaints and take disciplinary action against licensees for violations.
Penalties may include fines, license suspension or revocation, probation, or other sanctions.
Grounds for discipline include fraud, negligence, unprofessional conduct, substance abuse, and violation of pharmacy laws.
6. Continuing Education
Licensed pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must complete a specified number of continuing education hours within each renewal period.
Continuing education must cover relevant topics to maintain competence and stay updated on pharmacy practices and regulations.
7. Wholesale Distribution and Third-Party Logistics
Regulates entities involved in the wholesale distribution of pharmaceuticals.
Requires proper licensure, record-keeping, and compliance with safety and security standards.
8. Compounding and Sterile Preparations
Establishes standards for compounding medications, including sterile and non-sterile preparations.
Sets requirements for facilities, equipment, training, and quality control to ensure patient safety.
9. Electronic Prescriptions and Records
Provides rules regarding the use of electronic prescriptions.
Requires secure and accurate record maintenance for all prescriptions dispensed.
Summary
The Georgia State Board of Pharmacy (Department 480) enforces comprehensive rules regulating the licensing, practice, facilities, controlled substances, and discipline related to pharmacy professionals and businesses. These rules ensure the safe, ethical, and lawful practice of pharmacy across the state, protecting public health through stringent oversight of medication distribution and pharmaceutical care.
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