US State

Massachusetts: 90-day Supply for Certain Schedule II/III Prescriptions

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy updated its policy to allow a 90-day supply for certain Schedule II and III prescriptions, including those for opioid use disorder treatment, non-opioid stimulants, testosterone, and implantable infusion pumps. Other Schedule II and III medications remain limited to a 30-day supply.

MA Board Adopts Rapid Microbial Methods for Sterility Testing

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy has adopted a new policy allowing the use of Rapid Microbial Methods (RMMs) as an alternative for sterility release testing of compounded sterile preparations (CSPs). This policy outlines requirements for licensed sterile compounding pharmacies to ensure public safety when using these advanced technologies.

Rapid Microbial Methods Sterility Testing Guidance

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued guidance on the use of Rapid Microbial Methods (RMMs) for sterility testing. This document outlines acceptable approaches and considerations for implementing RMMs in pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing.

Massachusetts Pharmacy Practice Definitions

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy has issued a document defining key terms related to pharmacy practice. This guidance aims to clarify terminology for pharmacists and related entities operating within the state.

Pharmacy Policy: Definitions for Automated Dispensing, Compounding, and Events

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy has adopted Policy 2025-02, defining key terms related to automated dispensing devices, automated pharmacy systems, pharmacy processing automation, quality-related events, and serious adverse drug events. These definitions clarify regulatory expectations for pharmacies operating in the state.

Guidance on Erythromycin Eye Ointment Shortage

The New York State Department of Health has issued guidance addressing the shortage of erythromycin (0.5%) ophthalmic ointment. The guidance provides alternative protocols for preventing ophthalmia neonatorum in newborns when erythromycin is unavailable, based on recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

NY Health: Conserve IV Fluids and Materials Due to Supply Chain Disruptions

The New York State Department of Health has issued guidance (DAL 24-07) to hospitals and diagnostic and treatment centers regarding conservation strategies for IV fluids and related materials due to ongoing supply chain disruptions. The directive urges providers to inventory, monitor usage, limit non-essential procedures, and prioritize critical uses of these supplies.

Blood Supply Disruption and Conservation Strategies for Hospitals

The New York State Department of Health has issued guidance to hospitals and diagnostic and treatment centers regarding blood supply disruptions. The directive outlines strategies for conserving blood products and optimizing their use during periods of decreased availability.

Updated Hospital and Center Facility Closure Plan Guidelines

The New York State Department of Health has issued updated guidance for facility closure plans for hospitals and various healthcare centers. This supersedes previous guidance and outlines requirements for both temporary (up to 60 days) and non-temporary closures, including notification procedures and potential sanctions for non-compliance.

NY Clarifies Clinical Lab Personnel Requirements for Glucometry

The New York State Department of Health has issued guidance clarifying clinical laboratory personnel requirements, specifically regarding nurses performing high-complexity glucometer testing. This clarification aligns with recent federal CMS interpretations and will be enforced by the NY Clinical Laboratory Evaluation Program.