Brown Signs Legislation Expanding Role of Pharmacy Technicians
Gov. Jerry Brown (D) has signed a bill (SB 1039) that expands the number of tasks pharmacy technicians can perform, the Sacramento Business Journal reports.
Details of SB 1039
Under the new law, by Sen. Ed Hernandez (D-West Covina), pharmacy technicians under the supervision of a pharmacist will be able to:
- Check drug supplies and report irregularities;
- Pack and replenish emergency supplies; and
- Seal emergency containers.
The law also mandates that hospitals must create policies to ensure substances are properly repackaged.
According to the California Society of Health System Pharmacists, a cosponsor of the bill, the measure will allot more time for pharmacists to work directly with doctors and nurses.
The measure did not receive any formal opposition (Robertson, Sacramento Business Journal, 9/17).
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