Delegated dispensing agreement Nebraska – what is it and why does it matter?
If you run a pharmacy or work as a pharmacist in the state of Nebraska, you may have come across the term “delegated dispensing agreement”. But what exactly does it mean and why is it important for you to know?
Let`s start with the basics. A delegated dispensing agreement (DDA) is an agreement between a pharmacist and a physician that allows the pharmacist to prescribe and dispense medication without a prescription from the physician.
In other words, a DDA enables pharmacists to take on a greater role in patient care by allowing them to prescribe certain medications and dispense them directly to patients. This can be especially beneficial in rural areas where access to healthcare providers may be limited.
However, it`s important to note that not all medications can be prescribed or dispensed under a DDA. Controlled substances, for example, are not included. Additionally, pharmacists must undergo additional training and certification before they can participate in a DDA.
So why does this matter for pharmacists and pharmacy owners in Nebraska? For one, it can help expand their scope of practice and provide a wider range of services to patients. It can also help improve patient outcomes by allowing pharmacists to make more informed decisions about medications and dosages.
But there are also legal and financial implications to consider. DDAs must be approved by the Nebraska Board of Pharmacy and are subject to certain regulations and requirements. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to disciplinary action and potential legal consequences.
Additionally, DDAs can also impact pharmacy revenue. Medicare and Medicaid, for example, do not reimburse for medication prescribed under a DDA, which means that pharmacists may need to find other sources of revenue to compensate for the loss.
Overall, delegated dispensing agreements can be a valuable tool for pharmacists and healthcare providers in Nebraska. However, it`s important to understand the regulations and requirements surrounding DDAs and to weigh the potential benefits against the legal and financial implications.