The Commission of Pharmacy meeting held on September 29, 2025, focused on critical operational guidelines for pharmacies in Connecticut, emphasizing compliance and efficiency in pharmacy management. Key discussions revolved around inspection protocols, staff licensing, and inventory management, highlighting the importance of maintaining high standards in pharmacy operations.

One of the primary topics addressed was the minimum working hours for pharmacy managers, which is set at 35 hours per week. This requirement, reinstated after temporary waivers during the COVID-19 pandemic, is crucial for ensuring effective management and oversight within pharmacies. The meeting underscored the necessity for pharmacy technicians and pharmacists to keep their licenses and continuing education credits up to date, with a reminder that failure to do so could lead to significant repercussions, including the loss of insurance reimbursements.

The meeting also covered the importance of adhering to technician-to-pharmacist ratios, which can be 1:1 for certified technicians and up to 4:1 if one is an immunizing technician. Future regulations may allow for a 5:1 ratio, pending the completion of new advanced technician regulations.

Another significant point was the need for prompt reporting of any discrepancies in inventory, particularly regarding controlled substances. Pharmacies are required to report any inventory discrepancies within 72 hours, regardless of the amount. Regular inventory checks and accurate record-keeping were emphasized as essential practices to prevent issues related to drug diversion.

The discussion included the necessity of ensuring that pharmacy technology, such as counting machines and robotics, is properly calibrated to avoid dispensing errors. The meeting highlighted past incidents where miscalibrated equipment led to significant inventory discrepancies.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the importance of proper labeling of diabetic products to ensure they are correctly reported in the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP). The need for pharmacies to report early closures and maintain organized records was also stressed, as these practices are vital for patient care continuity.

In conclusion, the Commission of Pharmacy meeting served as a crucial reminder for pharmacy professionals in Connecticut to adhere to regulatory standards and maintain operational efficiency. The discussions aimed to enhance patient safety and ensure that pharmacies operate within the legal framework, ultimately benefiting both healthcare providers and patients.