CPhA Works With Partners To Successfully Delay California E-Pedigree Requirements

The California Pharmacists Association (CPhA) along with our partners, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores and the California Retailers Association worked closely with the California State Board of Pharmacy to extend the electronic pedigree requirements deadline until January 1, 2011. We fully support the Board in this decision.

"The California Pharmacists Association is pleased that the Board of Pharmacy has delayed the implementation of the electronic pedigree requirements," said Lynn Rolston, Chief Executive Officer for CPhA.

"While CPhA wholeheartedly supports the Board's desire to ensure the safety of prescription medications to patients, we were concerned that more time was needed for all members of the supply chain to be ready and that pharmacies would not have the appropriate equipment installed by the deadline to read the pedigree. It was our biggest concern that the supply of needed medications for Californian's not be disrupted."

"CPhA worked tirelessly on behalf of patients and its members to help achieve the delay in the electronic pedigree. Today's vote will provide more time to ensure a successful implementation for all concerned and especially pharmacies. We applaud the Board of Pharmacy for acknowledging the hurdles that exist and we will continue to work with our partners and the Board to find an electronic pedigree standard that will ensure patient safety," said Kathy Lynch, Vice President of Government Affairs for CPhA.

About California Pharmacists Association
The California Pharmacists Association is the largest state pharmacy association in the nation and the professional society representing all pharmacists in California. The mission of the Association is to act as the leader in advocating the role of the pharmacist as an essential provider of health care and to support pharmacists in providing optimal pharmaceutical and patient care.

SOURCE: California Pharmacists Association