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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

Get answers to common questions from providers like you. Then connect with an expert to help map your solution.

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What types of inspection services does ACHC provide?

ACHC provides sterile compounding, non-sterile compounding, and general pharmacy inspection services. These services can be conducted individually or combined to meet your pharmacy’s specific needs.

What are the requirements for a compounding pharmacy to apply for a pharmacy inspection?

Shipping out of state usually requires a non-resident licensure inspection. Check with your payor to determine whether they require a non-resident licensure inspection for shipping, mail-order accreditation, or both.

What are the requirements for a specialty pharmacy to apply for a pharmacy inspection?

Specialty pharmacies should consult with their payors if shipping drugs across state lines. Some payors require mail-order accreditation and may not accept a nonresident inspection for shipping into other states.

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, as is the list of state boards of pharmacy that authorize ACHC to conduct inspections. Check with the applicable BOP for the most recent updates, and don’t hesitate to contact us.

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.

ACHC Resources

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