CA AB1841

Medical assistants in facilities licensed by the California State Board of Pharmacy (under Sections 4180 or 4190) may now hand prepackaged, non-controlled prescription drugs to patients as part of "technical supportive services."

Before handing medication to a patient, a licensed physician and surgeon, licensed podiatrist, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or certified nurse-midwife must verify it is the correct medication and dosage and provide appropriate patient consultation.

The prescription drug must be properly labeled in compliance with Section 4170 and all applicable state and federal laws, with the patient's name affixed to the package.

Medical assistants in pharmacy-licensed facilities may only dispense non-controlled substances; controlled substances remain prohibited.

This authorization applies only to pharmacy-licensed facilities and does not apply to inpatient care in general acute care hospitals.