Presentation #1

The History of RN’sDispensing in LHD’s

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

In the late 1980’s and early 1990’s RN dispensing surfaces once again as an issue in LHD’s

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

MD Board of Nursing in 1990’s statedthat “dispensing of drugs was not anursing function and not covered by the MD Nurse Practice Act.”

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

RN’s dispensing was in violation of the MD Pharmacy Practice Act.

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

Several legislative attempts weremade and failed.

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

Diane Matuszak, M.D., intervened by approaching the Board of PhysicianQuality Assurance.

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

BPQA stated that they could issuean exemption that would allow certainphysicians in LHD’s to delegate theirdispensing authority.

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

On April 28, 1999, the BPQA voted toproceed in issuing a declaratory rulingfor dispensing by public health nurses.

The History of RN’s Dispensing in LHD’s

The BPQA ruled that “a physician employed by DHMH or LHD may delegate dispensing authority tocertain registered nurses who havereceived approved training to dispensedrugs and devices in a safe and legal manner.”