Roles and Regulations for Pharmacists in State-Level Disaster Relief Efforts

Objective: The purpose of this study is to determine what expanded roles have been identified for pharmacists by the states in disaster relief efforts, what regulations currently exist for pharmacists in disaster relief efforts in each state, and whether or not disaster relief and public health training should be added to the pharmacy school curriculum. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive design was used to survey fifty-three boards of pharmacy via email and Qualtrics Survey Software. Results: Analysis of the survey results showed that most states lack a disaster preparedness plan and expanded roles for pharmacists in disaster relief efforts, and most states do not anticipate changes in regulations for pharmacists in disaster relief efforts in the near future. Furthermore, the boards of pharmacy are discordant concerning general pharmacy regulations, renewal of temporary/mobile pharmacy permits, out-of-state licensure, length of license reciprocity, multiple prescription refills during a state of emergency, Board of Pharmacy (BOP) representative involvement and assistance in disaster areas, and the necessity for disaster relief and public health training for pharmacy students. Fortunately, most BOPs do allow the establishment of temporary/mobile pharmacies and at least a one-time emergency prescription refill during declared emergencies. Discussion: Pharmacists have the ability to make a positive impact on disaster relief effort management and success and should be recognized as an essential part of the first responder team. Pharmacists must work to attain well-defined and cohesive roles and regulations in disaster relief efforts