New Pharmacy Security Regulations in Iowa:
What You Need to Know Before July 6

May 5, 2023

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There are several regulatory agencies ensuring the safety of prescription drugs in the U.S. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) is the primary acting body, maintaining oversight duties over distribution and, by default, pharmacy operations. Since state and local governments have some authority within their jurisdictions, we are here to report on the latest pharmacy regulations in Iowa which have an upcoming July 6 deadline. 

Upcoming Security Changes for Pharmacies in Iowa

In order to protect its pharmacies and citizens, the Iowa Board of Pharmacy has amended its state code. This includes the following minimum physical security and monitoring system requirements. 

  1. Appropriate physical security and monitoring of the pharmacy in an effort to prevent unauthorized access to prescription drugs. This includes controlled substances and pharmacy records. Each pharmacy’s written procedure should address how to retain alarm and video surveillance recordings plus a contingency plan for when the systems are down. This shall include: 
    1. A basic alarm system, which must be retained by July 6, 2023. 
    2. A video surveillance system, which must be retained by the same date. Exceptions include automated medication dispensing machines or other electronic storage units using biometric restricted access or other electronic monitoring. 
    3. Controlled access to computer records. 
    4. A designated location that can be monitored, away from drug storage and handling areas, where personal items of pharmacy staff may be stored while on site.

This translates into some precautions you might already be taking at your Iowa-based pharmacy but, for any that haven’t made it into your safety protocol yet, we are here to help. Our experienced, professional salespeople will survey your pharmacy for how to best implement your business security system. Then, our highly trained Per Mar employed technicians will install your surveillance cameras and security alarms while you continue business as usual. 

Secure Your Pharmacy with an Iowa-Based Commercial Security Company

While we take a no-pressure sales approach, we do like to educate our customers on options that make sense for their businesses. Ask us about access control services or intelligent video monitoring (IVM) which catches intruders in the act. Also known as live video monitoring, IVM integrates well with security guards, as evidenced by Palmer College of Chiropractic in the Quad Cities. 

There are many business security companies and security system options available to help you reach your end goal but, if you’re looking to work with a reputable security company to get the most secure solution and proper security equipment installed by the July 6 deadline, we’ve got you! We have locations throughout Iowa including Des Moines, Burlington, Cedar Rapids, Fort Dodge, Sioux City, and the Quad Cities. Per Mar Security headquarters, Per Mar Centre is also located in Davenport, IA. Click through to the map to see all of our Iowa-based locations. For questions, contact us at 800-473-7627 or by filling out our online form. 

Source:

The Board of Pharmacy hereby amends Chapter 6, “General Pharmacy Practice,” Chapter 8, “Universal Practice Standards,” and Chapter 10, “Controlled Substances,” Iowa Administrative Code. Legal Authority for Rule Making This rule-making is adopted under the authority provided in Iowa Code sections 124.301, 147.76, and 155A.13. State or Federal Law Implemented This rule-making implements, in whole or in part, Iowa Code sections 124.301 and 155A.13.