Calif. board ups fines for failure to consult

Fines for California pharmacists who fail to consult patients will increase significantly, to as much as $5,000, as the state pharmacy board looks to crack down on this omission. Unlike many states, California requires its pharmacists to consult with every patient picking up a new prescription. "Pharmacists have important information that needs to be communicated," argued Virginia Herold executive officer of the California pharmacy board. "The most important thing pharmacists can do is to consult with patients. This is not intended to be punitive." In some cases, pharmacies may be held responsible when staffing is not adequate. According to Herold, the board is also updating its notice to consumers, which offers five questions patients should ask pharmacists.

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