West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 15 - Pharmacy
1. Purpose of Agency 15 – Pharmacy
The West Virginia Board of Pharmacy (Agency 15) is created to:
Regulate the practice of pharmacy in the state.
Ensure the safe distribution and use of medications.
Protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
Oversee licensing, compliance, and enforcement for pharmacists, pharmacies, and related personnel.
2. Structure of the Agency
Board Members: Usually composed of pharmacists and public representatives, appointed to oversee rules and enforcement.
Executive Director / Staff: Handles daily administration, licensing, and compliance monitoring.
Committees: May be formed to address specific issues like continuing education, complaints, or controlled substances.
3. Licensing & Registration
The agency regulates who may legally practice pharmacy:
Pharmacist Licensure
Completion of an approved pharmacy degree.
Passing of required examinations (written and practical).
Background and character review.
Pharmacy Technicians
Registration with the agency.
Completion of approved training and supervision requirements.
Pharmacies & Facilities
Licensing of all retail, hospital, mail-order, and specialty pharmacies.
Rules for physical standards, storage, and security of drugs.
Controlled Substances Handling
Registration for handling, storing, and dispensing controlled medications.
4. Practice Standards
The agency sets professional standards for how pharmacy is practiced:
Dispensing Medications: Pharmacists must ensure accuracy in filling prescriptions.
Counseling Patients: Pharmacists are required to inform patients about usage, side effects, and interactions.
Record Keeping: Accurate records of prescriptions, inventory, and controlled substances must be maintained.
Compounding Rules: Guidelines exist for when and how pharmacists may prepare custom medications.
Safety & Confidentiality: Protect patient health information and comply with agency rules for privacy.
5. Continuing Education
Licensed pharmacists must complete continuing education (CE) to keep their license active.
CE ensures practitioners remain current with new drug therapies, technology, and regulations.
6. Inspections & Compliance
The agency has authority to:
Inspect pharmacies and facilities to verify compliance.
Audit records related to controlled substances and prescriptions.
Issue corrective orders if violations are found.
7. Disciplinary Authority
The Board of Pharmacy enforces professional responsibility by:
Investigating complaints of misconduct, negligence, or illegal practice.
Holding administrative hearings for accused licensees.
Issuing penalties, including:
Fines
Probation
Suspension of license
Revocation of license
This ensures that only safe, ethical, and qualified practitioners serve the public.
8. Public Protection Role
The agency also provides:
Consumer education about safe drug use.
Complaint processes for patients who have concerns.
Oversight of drug distribution systems to prevent abuse or diversion.
9. Summary
The West Virginia Board of Pharmacy (Agency 15) is the state’s regulatory authority for pharmacy practice. Its key responsibilities are:
Licensing pharmacists, technicians, and pharmacies.
Enforcing safe standards of practice.
Regulating controlled substances.
Investigating violations and applying discipline.
Ensuring pharmacists stay educated and updated.
In short, it ensures that medications in West Virginia are dispensed and managed safely, ethically, and professionally.
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