UNTANGLING LICENSURE

Pharmacy Inspection Services

Expert guidance on state board of pharmacy requirements.

Rules of the road

Many states have stringent regulations for delivering compounded drugs across state lines. Interstate shipping often requires a pharmacy to have a site inspection before obtaining a specific type of nonresident license.

ACHC is authorized by some states to conduct a nonresident pharmacy inspection. Our inspectors visit your pharmacy, collect data, and prepare an inspection report for the board of pharmacy (BOP). The BOP reviews the report along with your application and, if approved, issues your license.

Inspection ≠ accreditation

Pharmacy Inspection Services are not the same as PCAB Compounding Pharmacy Accreditation. Each state’s nonresident inspection process is determined by the BOP, and ACHC inspectors are trained to follow those requirements. ACHC accreditation follows a separate set of standards.

FAQs

Gain clarity by reading common questions from providers like you. Then connect with an expert to help map your solution.

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What are the requirements to apply for Pharmacy Inspection Services?

You must have an active BOP license in your home state.
Your pharmacy must have been compounding for at least 30 days.

Does my organization have to be ACHC-accredited to apply for Pharmacy Inspection Services?

No.

My pharmacy needs an accreditation survey and a compounding inspection. Can we receive both at the same time?

Unfortunately, no. These are two separate processes that must remain independent of each other.

Which states have authorized ACHC to conduct an inspection for pharmacies shipping compounded drugs across state lines?

Pharmacy regulations are constantly evolving, and so is our list of partnerships with state boards of pharmacy. Check with the applicable BOP for the most recent updates, and don’t hesitate to contact us.

When is the nonresident inspection due for my pharmacy?

It depends. Every BOP has different deadlines and timeframes. Avoid a last-minute rush and reach out to ACHC six months before your inspection is needed. We’ll help determine your timeline, but six months gives us—and you—plenty of time to make sure we’re on the right track.

Is this inspection announced or unannounced?

Unannounced, but we’ll give you a two-week window around the time we will arrive.

I provided the BOP with the documentation from my last accreditation survey. Why do they need more information before they will issue a nonresident license?

Some BOPs may accept a “detailed ACHC accreditation report.” Others require an “inspection report.” These are two different types of documentation used for two different purposes. Contact us and we’ll help you figure out your next steps.

My specialty pharmacy does not perform compounding, am I eligible for Pharmacy Inspection Services?

No. This inspection is for pharmacies that ship compounded drugs only.

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