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Board of Pharmacy adopts technical change to require video for APDS consultations
Summary
The California State Board of Pharmacy voted to adopt a regulatory amendment to Title 16, CCR §1713 to align consultation standards for automated patient delivery systems (APDS) with statutory language requiring two‑way audio and video consultation. The rulemaking was adopted after staff reported no public comments during the 45‑day period.
The California State Board of Pharmacy voted to adopt an amendment to Title 16, California Code of Regulations section 1713 clarifying consultation requirements for prescriptions dispensed via automated patient delivery systems (APDS).
The change, introduced at the June 2025 board meeting, updates the board's regulation to conform with a statutory requirement—previously adopted in law—that patient consultations performed when medication is dispensed from APDS devices include not only two‑way audio but also video. Board staff told members that no comments were received during the 45‑day notice period and recommended adoption of the proposed text.
The amendment replaces earlier regulatory language that referenced audio‑only consultations and removes possible confusion over technology requirements when a patient receives medication from lockers, automated dispensing units, or similar APDS devices. During board discussion, members and staff clarified that the regulation covers consultation at the point the medication is dispensed through an APDS and that pharmacies must also remain accessible by phone for routine patient inquiries.
Board member Renee Barker moved to adopt the proposed text and authorize the executive officer to complete the rulemaking file; a second was recorded. Public comment during the Webex portion included a note from Steven Gray, a registered pharmacist, who corrected terminology in the statute—saying the law uses “dispensing system” rather than “delivery system.” The board then conducted a roll call vote; the motion passed with all members voting yes.
Why it matters: the amendment aligns the board's rules with statutory language and removes ambiguity about whether video is required for APDS consultations, which affect pharmacies using lockers, automated dispensing cabinets, and other remote dispensing technologies.
What’s next: staff will complete the regulatory adoption steps and publish final regulatory text and implementation guidance on the board website.
