IL HB5949

Amends the Pharmacy Practice Act to implement a pilot program requiring participating pharmacies to dispense Schedule II controlled substances containing hydrocodone in non-reusable medicine locking closure packages with user-generated alphanumeric codes starting January 1, 2016.

Pilot program is voluntary for pharmacies and limited to $150,000 in Department expenditures, with authority to contract with third parties for implementation.

Pharmacies must dispense packages with patient use instructions unless the prescriber orally, in writing, or electronically indicates otherwise.

Package manufacturers must provide online or toll-free assistance for patients; prescriptions covered by Medicare Part D, Medicaid, and Medicaid managed care plans are exempt, as are prescriptions for nursing home residents.

Pilot program sunsets on January 1, 2018, with the effective date upon becoming law.