Sec. 562.109. AUTOMATED PHARMACY SYSTEMS

(a) In this section, "automated pharmacy system" means a mechanical system that:

(1) dispenses prescription drugs; and

(2) maintains related transaction information.

(b) A Class A or Class C pharmacy may provide pharmacy services through an automated pharmacy system in a facility that is not at the same location as the Class A or Class C pharmacy. The pharmacist in charge of the Class A or Class C pharmacy is responsible for filling and loading the storage containers for medication stored in bulk at the facility.

(c) An automated pharmacy system is required to be under the continuous supervision of a pharmacist as determined by board rule. To qualify as continuous supervision for an automated pharmacy system, the pharmacist is not required to be physically present at the site of the automated pharmacy system and may supervise the system electronically.

(d) An automated pharmacy system may be located only at a health care facility regulated by the state.

(e) The board shall adopt rules regarding the use of an automated pharmacy system under this section, including:

(1) the types of health care facilities at which an automated pharmacy system may be located, which shall include a facility regulated under Chapter 142, 242, or 252, Health and Safety Code;

(2) recordkeeping requirements; and

(3) security requirements.

Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 92, Sec. 1, eff. May 11, 2001.