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Pharmacies prepare for revisions to USP 797

For pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and other staff, a clock is counting down to November 1, 2023, and revisions to USP 797. That’s the date by which the United States Pharmacopeia Convention, or USP, has set for implementing changes to USP Chapter 797. USP 797 outlines requirements and procedures for compounding sterile drugs – among the riskiest duties undertaken by pharmacists on behalf of their patients. The convention first put in place USP 797 on January 1, 2004. The chapter sets forth a standard of practice for pharmacists. And the authors originally wrote this section to “prevent patient harm and fatality from microbial contamination (nonsterility), excessive bacterial endotoxins, large content errors in the strength of correct ingredients, and incorrect ingredients in CSPs.” Industry pundits say there are mixed feelings among pharmacy professionals for the latest revisions.… Read More »Pharmacies prepare for revisions to USP 797

Tapping the right technology frees time-strapped pharmacists to focus on healthcare

Last spring, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists released findings from a survey that noted a severe shortage of pharmacy technicians. While healthcare shortages are well publicized, the extent to which administrators are tapping pharmacists to help is noteworthy. Ninety percent of hospital and health-system pharmacy administrators said they had asked pharmacists to perform tasks usually handled by technicians. With a lack of technicians, pharmacists and other team members must juggle additional roles and/or work longer hours. Technology can play a role in helping time-strapped pharmacies automate the management of accreditations and document compliance activities like adhering to USP 797 and USP 800. Pharmacy administrators owe it to themselves to consider which technologies could shoulder some of the work to help pharmacists, staff, and patients. Younger generations rethinking primary care Hospitals and health-system pharmacies aren’t… Read More »Tapping the right technology frees time-strapped pharmacists to focus on healthcare