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A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
Interstate EMS medication restocking after hospital closure: A pharmacy-led regulatory response
Ryan R Morgan1, Kevin Blinn1, David J Hargrave2
1St. Joseph Hospital, Nashua, NH, USA.
Purpose:
To describe a multi-state regulatory and operational response that preserved EMS controlled substance access following the closure of a rural community hospital.
Summary:
Hospital closures can disrupt established emergency medical services (EMS) medical control relationships and medication restocking pathways, including access to controlled substances. Limited literature describes the role of hospital pharmacy departments in maintaining EMS medication continuity during system-level disruptions. Following the closure of Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Massachusetts, local EMS agencies experienced increased transport times and operational strain related to medication restocking requirements. To mitigate service disruption, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Drug Control Program and Office of Emergency Medical Services issued a time-limited waiver permitting interstate restocking at designated New Hampshire hospitals. Hospital pharmacy leadership collaborated with EMS agencies and regulators to establish controlled substance custody safeguards, documentation workflows, and reconciliation procedures consistent with state and federal requirements. This case highlights structural differences between Massachusetts and New Hampshire EMS medication governance models and demonstrates the role of hospital pharmacy in aligning cross-jurisdictional compliance frameworks.
Conclusion:
Hospital pharmacists may serve as critical regulatory integrators during regional healthcare disruptions. Formal agreements, clearly defined custody models, and interagency coordination are essential to maintaining EMS controlled substance access while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
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