The pandemic has exposed flaws in services for people who can’t easily access a drive-through window for Covid shots or testing or can’t read prescription labels.
A brief overview of the history of accessible prescription labeling standards development and legislation followed by overview of current bills in various states. This presentation was given during the National Federation of the Blind's annual 2021 Convention.
As the U.S. population of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) residents grows, several state legislatures have enacted laws requiring pharmacies to provide prescription labels in the language of the patient’s choice to ensure medication safety and adherence.
The author of a recent blog published by Pharmacy Times,
highlights some of the benefits these multi-lingual labels can provide
patients. For example, these labels can help drive down patient
medication-related errors and drive up medication adherence as patients better
understand label instructions.
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If a person with a visual or print impairment struggles to read a prescription label, it’s time for the pharmacy to take action. Accessible prescription labels have been available since 2003 and are options that any pharmacy can implement. Formats include large print labels, Braille labels, and talking labels and prescription readers. Controlled Substance Safety Labels (CSSLs) are the latest addition to the options that keep patients safe. The National Council on Disability features a guide to help pharmacists with providing labeling accommodations: Best Practices for Prescription Drug Labeling