The Ohio Board of Pharmacy voted November 6, 2023 to file new rules regarding the reporting of accessible pharmacy services. Many public comments were posted prior to the decision and can be viewed here.
The new rule would require pharmacies applying or renewing their license to report what services they provide to those who are hearing impaired, vision impaired or in need of translation services. The information will be put into an online directory that patients can access.
4729:5-2-05 - Notification of Accessible Services.
(A) Every outpatient pharmacy providing pharmacy services in this state shall report to the state
board of pharmacy, in a manner determined by the board, the following information on accessible
services provided by the pharmacy within ninety days of the effective date of this rule:
(1) The type of language translation services, including translated prescription labels, for patients
who are of limited English proficiency;
(2) The type of services available for patients who are hard of hearing; and
(3) The type of services available for patients with low vision.
(B) As part of the licensure and renewal process established in rule 4729:5-2-02 of the
Administrative Code, an outpatient pharmacy providing pharmacy services in this state shall submit
information on the accessible services listed in paragraph (A) of this rule that are provided by the
pharmacy.
(C) An outpatient pharmacy required to submit notification to the board in accordance with this
rule shall notify the board within thirty days of any change in the accessible services provided by
the pharmacy.
(D) Except as provided in paragraph (E) of this rule, a pharmacy that reports it offers
accessible services shall be required to provide those services to patients upon request.
(E) Paragraph (D) does not apply if the pharmacy experiences a temporary software or
equipment failure of the accessible service offered.