A few words from Roger Citron, R.Ph., DPHHS

The following is a message from Roger Citron, RPh, DPHHS:

"We are currently working to identify vendors capable of providing script pads which will be fully 2008 compliant, but as of 10/1/2007 one of the three "industry recognized standards" or documentation of verbal confirmation by the prescriber documented on the face of the prescription must be incorporated on written Medicaid scripts to ensure reimbursement by the State. I agree that it is unfortunate that pharmacies bear the brunt of the legislation, when it is incumbent upon the prescriber to comply, but that is the way the law is written and once again pharmacies are the easy target to ensure compliance.

I cannot stress enough the importance of pharmacies working with prescribers to fax or call in scripts, or come up with other creative methods to ensure compliance. Our Prudent Audits will be required to look for compliance, so when a prescription is audited after 10/1/2007 pharmacies need to ensure it is compliant with the new law to avoid recoupment. Unfortunately the clients will ultimately be impacted as they are turned away by some pharmacies unwilling to assume the risk or unwilling to call for verification."

Roger A. Citron, R.Ph.
Montana DPHHS

Thank you Roger for your guidence during these critical times!