Pharma & Life Sciences

California Board of Pharmacy Updates and AB 1503 Changes

The California Board of Pharmacy is updating its regulations effective January 1, 2026, due to Assembly Bill 1503. Key changes include a transition to a Standard of Care practice model for certain pharmacist-provided services and new requirements for nonresident pharmacies operating in California, effective July 1, 2026.

California Board of Pharmacy Updates on SCRA, AB 1503, and Nonresident Pharmacies

The California Board of Pharmacy issued a news roundup detailing updates on the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), Assembly Bill 1503 impacting pharmacist practice, and new requirements for nonresident pharmacies. Key changes include the transition of certain pharmacist-provided patient care services to a standard of care model and new PIC designation rules for out-of-state pharmacies operating in California.

OIG Audit: Medicaid Agencies Made $207M in Unallowable Payments for Deceased Enrollees

The HHS OIG has released an audit report finding that Medicaid agencies made an estimated $207.5 million in unallowable capitation payments to managed care organizations on behalf of deceased enrollees between July 2021 and June 2022. The report recommends CMS provide agencies with data to recover payments and explore OBBB Act implementation.

Maine Medicaid Autism Services Improper Payments

The HHS OIG has issued a report finding that Maine made at least $45.6 million in improper fee-for-service Medicaid payments for autism services provided to children. The audit identified that all sampled claims were improper or potentially improper, leading to recommendations for refunds and improved provider guidance.

HHS OIG: ACF Can Improve Homeless Youth Services Compliance

The HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) issued a report finding that the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) can improve services to homeless youth by strengthening grant recipients' compliance with Transitional Living Program (TLP) requirements. The audit found significant documentation gaps in service provision for a large percentage of youth served by TLP grants.

HHS OIG: Hospital Cybersecurity Controls Need Improvement

The HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) issued a report finding that a large southeastern hospital needs to improve its cybersecurity controls, particularly for web applications. The OIG made four recommendations to enhance defenses against cyberattacks, which the hospital has concurred with.

Philadelphia K-12 Schools COVID-19 Testing Program Audit

The HHS Office of Inspector General found that Philadelphia did not consistently monitor its COVID-19 screening testing program for K-12 schools, leading to $257,620 in unallowable costs and overpayments. The OIG recommended Philadelphia update its procedures for oversight and compliance.

FDA Requests Removal of Suicidal Behavior Warning from GLP-1 RA Medications

The FDA is requesting that drug manufacturers remove the warning about suicidal ideation and behavior from the labeling of GLP-1 RA medications approved for weight reduction. This action follows a comprehensive review that found no increased risk associated with these drugs.

MHRA Medical Devices Exceptional Use Authorisations List Updated

The UK's MHRA has updated its list of medical devices granted exceptional use authorisations. This guidance document provides transparency on manufacturers and devices that have received exemptions, including those whose authorisations have expired or been cancelled.

MHRA: Stop using non-sterile alcohol-free wipes due to infection risk

The MHRA and UKHSA are advising the public not to use four specific non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products due to contamination with Burkholderia stabilis bacteria. These products have been withdrawn from sale, but may still be in homes, and are linked to 59 cases, including one death.