PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
(Board of Pharmacy)
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 246-872 WAC, Automated drug distribution devices.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 18.64.005(7).
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The board's rule that regulates mechanical devices in a hospital setting is significantly outdated. The rule was written in 1965 and is in need of updating. Since 1965, more advanced systems, known as automated drug dispensing devices, have been developed. In order to promote and protect public health, new rules need to be developed to regulate the new automated drug dispensing devices.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative rule making.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Lisa Salmi, Washington State Board of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 47863, Olympia, WA 98504-7863, Lisa.Salmi@doh.wa.gov, (360) 236-4828, or fax (360) 586-4359. Information on public meetings can be obtained from Lisa Salmi, Board of Pharmacy.
August 5, 2003
D. H. Williams
Executive Director