Illinois regulators have announced that they are issuing tickets and fines for some minor infractions in state’s licensed pharmacies. Prior to this announcement, minor infractions in the state’s licensed pharmacies were treated with higher-level disciplinary actions that took time and resources. A pilot program developed by officials at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has now been made permanent as of Monday, October 17, in hopes that investigators can focus on matters that are more serious threats to public safety. Officials say the program benefits both the department and the pharmacists.
The Pharmacy Citation Program has been developed and used for minor infractions. According to officials, the program has issued 86 tickets for issues such as keeping food or beverages in an undesignated area of a pharmacy and failure to display a current license in a conspicuous location. This new program has brought in over $23,000 in fines during the first six months. It also spares pharmacists and state’s licensed pharmacies the burden of legal fees and lengthy litigation. Officials say the program will allow major infractions such as public safety issues, more easily investigated by health officials. If the program succeeds, it is possible more states will develop a similar action plan.
The department can reduce regulatory burdens without compromising patient care and public safety. Officials call it a streamlined approach that gives the department’s investigators increased time in the field for more substantive matters. More information on the new program can be found by visiting the state’s website.
If you have been injured and you believe it is the result of a mistake made by a pharmacy or pharmacist, please contact Meyerkord & Kurth, LLC, and tell us your case.