The MedSafe Compliance Corner

During the holidays, many office parties are held to celebrate the season, and they are a wonderful opportunity for employees to socialize and spend some relaxing time with co-workers.  At the same time, employers must be aware and cautious of potentially serious liabilities when alcohol is served during company-sponsored events.

 On October 6, 2011, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services published the Final Rule for Electronic Prescribing (eRx), setting forth how eligible providers (or group practices) can use “significant hardship exemptions” to avoid Physician Fee Schedule penalties. If providers or practices do not apply for these exemptions by November 1, 2011, they will incur penalties of one percent in 2012, 1.5 percent in 2013, and 2 percent in 2014.

 On April 19, 2011, the Obama Administration released a comprehensive action plan designed to address the national prescription drug abuse epidemic while protecting the delivery of effective pain-management. There are several Federal agencies cooperating with the endeavor, including the Departments of Justice, Health and Human Services, Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Finally, Congress has passed, and the President has signed, an amendment to the Controlled Substances Act called the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act. The law will give users a method to safely dispose of unwanted or expired prescription drugs—including controlled substances.