5 Industry Orgs Share Best Practices for Signature-Free Rx Access

By Sandra Levy, dsn

Five industry organizations have come together to share best practices for signature-free pickup and delivery of prescriptions. FMI -– The Food Industry Association, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, the National Community Pharmacists Association, the National Grocers Association, and the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association today issued a joint statement for pharmacies and pharmacy benefit managers about how to documenting signature-free delivery or pick-up of prescription drugs during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The organizations said the best practices are intended to provide clarity so that consumers can feel confident in not having to physically sign for their prescriptions and to address pharmacy concerns about proper documentation for future audits.

The release noted that as long as one of the following is included in the delivery documentation, it should suffice for purposes of an audit:

• The delivery date, time, and words “COVID delivery” in the signature line;
• The delivery date, time, and word “COVID” in the signature line; and 
• The delivery date, time, and word “COVID-19” in the signature line.

“In an effort to minimize the spread of the COVID-19 virus, FMI appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with PCMA and the pharmacy trade associations to streamline transactions and facilitate a more consistent touchless customer experience regardless of whether the transaction is conducted in pharmacy, via mail order, curbside pickup or delivery,” said Leslie Sarasin, FMI president and CEO.

“The 20,000 plus community pharmacies have courageously worked on the front line as essential businesses to make sure consumers had access to their prescription medications and other supplies needed to stay safe and healthy including reconfiguring their pharmacy operations to provide contactless delivery of medications,” said NCPA CEO Doug Hoey. “We appreciate consistent guidance from PBMs in this matter to help assure that pharmacists can focus on their most important job – taking care of patients.”

READ MORE