Which law requires that pharmacists offer counseling to patients on new prescriptions?

Which law requires that pharmacists offer counseling to patients on new prescriptions?

• A. Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) 1990
• B. Drug-Free Workplace Act
• C. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
• D. Prescription Drug Marketing Act

Answer: (A)

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1990 is the law that mandates pharmacists to offer counseling to patients on new prescriptions. This legislation was introduced to improve the quality of care provided to patients, especially those who are elderly and receive medications through Medicare. One of the key requirements under OBRA 90 is the emphasis on drug utilization review (DUR) and patient counseling, which ensures that patients are informed about their medications, including their proper use, potential side effects, and interactions with other drugs. The law recognizes the pharmacist's role as an essential part of healthcare in managing medication therapy and enhancing patient outcomes. By requiring counseling, OBRA 90 encourages the pharmacist to actively engage with the patient, thus improving adherence to medication regimens and overall health. This counseling is not merely a suggestion but a legal requirement for pharmacists in many states, reflecting the importance of patient education in the healthcare system.

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1990 is the law that mandates pharmacists to offer counseling to patients on new prescriptions. This legislation was introduced to improve the quality of care provided to patients, especially those who are elderly and receive medications through Medicare. One of the key requirements under OBRA 90 is the emphasis on drug utilization review (DUR) and patient counseling, which ensures that patients are informed about their medications, including their proper use, potential side effects, and interactions with other drugs.

The law recognizes the pharmacist's role as an essential part of healthcare in managing medication therapy and enhancing patient outcomes. By requiring counseling, OBRA 90 encourages the pharmacist to actively engage with the patient, thus improving adherence to medication regimens and overall health. This counseling is not merely a suggestion but a legal requirement for pharmacists in many states, reflecting the importance of patient education in the healthcare system.