title: RCW 18.64.011

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Administer" means the direct application of a drug or device, whether by injection, inhalation, ingestion, or any other means, to the body of a patient or research subject.
(2) "Business licensing system" means the mechanism established by chapter 19.02 RCW by which business licenses, endorsed for individual state-issued licenses, are issued and renewed utilizing a business license application and a business license expiration date common to each renewable license endorsement.
(3) "Chart order" means a lawful order for a drug or device entered on the chart or medical record of an inpatient or resident of an institutional facility by a practitioner or his or her designated agent.
(4) "Closed door long-term care pharmacy" means a pharmacy that provides pharmaceutical care to a defined and exclusive group of patients who have access to the services of the pharmacy because they are treated by or have an affiliation with a long-term care facility or hospice program, and that is not a retailer of goods to the general public.
(5) "Commission" means the pharmacy quality assurance commission.
(6) "Compounding" means the act of combining two or more ingredients in the preparation of a prescription. Reconstitution and mixing of (a) sterile products according to federal food and drug administration-approved labeling does not constitute compounding if prepared pursuant to a prescription and administered immediately or in accordance with package labeling, and (b) nonsterile products according to federal food and drug administration-approved labeling does not constitute compounding if prepared pursuant to a prescription.
(7) "Controlled substance" means a drug or substance, or an immediate precursor of such drug or substance, so designated under or pursuant to the provisions of chapter 69.50 RCW.
(8) "Deliver" or "delivery" means the actual, constructive, or attempted transfer from one person to another of a drug or device, whether or not there is an agency relationship.
(9) "Department" means the department of health.
(10) "Device" means instruments, apparatus, and contrivances, including their components, parts, and accessories, intended (a) for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in human beings or other animals, or (b) to affect the structure or any function of the body of human beings or other animals.
(11) "Directed plan of correction" means a plan devised by the commission that includes specific actions that must be taken to correct identified unresolved deficiencies with time frames to complete them.
(12) "Dispense" means the interpretation of a prescription or order for a drug, biological, or device and, pursuant to that prescription or order, the proper selection, measuring, compounding, labeling, or packaging necessary to prepare that prescription or order for delivery.
(13) "Distribute" means the delivery of a drug or device other than by administering or dispensing.
(14) "Drug" and "devices" do not include surgical or dental instruments or laboratory materials, gas and oxygen, therapy equipment, X-ray apparatus or therapeutic equipment, their component parts or accessories, or equipment, instruments, apparatus, or contrivances used to render such articles effective in medical, surgical, or dental treatment, or for use or consumption in or for mechanical, industrial, manufacturing, or scientific applications or purposes. "Drug" also does not include any article or mixture covered by the Washington pesticide control act (chapter 15.58 RCW), as enacted or hereafter amended, nor medicated feed intended for and used exclusively as a feed for animals other than human beings.
(15) "Drugs" means:
(a) Articles recognized in the official United States pharmacopoeia or the official homeopathic pharmacopoeia of the United States;
(b) Substances intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in human beings or other animals;
(c) Substances (other than food) intended to affect the structure or any function of the body of human beings or other animals; or
(d) Substances intended for use as a component of any substances specified in (a), (b), or (c) of this subsection, but not including devices or their component parts or accessories.
(16) "Health care entity" means an organization that provides health care services in a setting that is not otherwise licensed by the state to acquire or possess legend drugs. Health care entity includes a freestanding outpatient surgery center, a residential treatment facility, and a freestanding cardiac care center. "Health care entity" does not include an individual practitioner's office or a multipractitioner clinic, regardless of ownership, unless the owner elects licensure as a health care entity. "Health care entity" also does not include an individual practitioner's office or multipractitioner clinic identified by a hospital on a pharmacy application or renewal pursuant to RCW 18.64.043.
(17) "Hospice program" means a hospice program certified or paid by medicare under Title XVIII of the federal social security act, or a hospice program licensed under chapter 70.127 RCW.
(18) "Immediate jeopardy" means a situation in which a licensee's noncompliance with one or more statutory or regulatory requirements has placed the health and safety of individuals or animals at risk for serious injury, serious harm, serious impairment, or death.
(19) "Institutional facility" means any organization whose primary purpose is to provide a physical environment for patients to obtain health care services including, but not limited to, services in a hospital, long-term care facility, hospice program, mental health facility, drug abuse treatment center, residential habilitation center, or a local, state, or federal correction facility.
(20) "Labeling" means the process of preparing and affixing a label to any drug or device container. The label must include all information required by current federal and state law and pharmacy rules.
(21) "Legend drugs" means any drugs which are required by any applicable federal or state law or regulation to be dispensed on prescription only or are restricted to use by practitioners only.
(22) "License," "licensing," and "licensure" shall be deemed equivalent to the terms "approval," "credential," "certificate," "certification," "permit," and "registration" and an "exemption" issued under chapter 69.50 RCW.
(23) "Long-term care facility" means a nursing home licensed under chapter 18.51 RCW, an assisted living facility licensed under chapter 18.20 RCW, or an adult family home licensed under chapter 70.128 RCW.
(24) "Manufacture" means the production, preparation, propagation, compounding, or processing of a drug or other substance or device or the packaging or repackaging of such substance or device, or the labeling or relabeling of the commercial container of such substance or device, but does not include the activities of a practitioner who, as an incident to his or her administration or dispensing such substance or device in the course of his or her professional practice, personally prepares, compounds, packages, or labels such substance or device. "Manufacture" includes the distribution of a licensed pharmacy compounded drug product to other state licensed persons or commercial entities for subsequent resale or distribution, unless a specific product item has approval of the commission. The term does not include:
(a) The activities of a licensed pharmacy that compounds a product on or in anticipation of an order of a licensed practitioner for use in the course of their professional practice to administer to patients, either personally or under their direct supervision;
(b) The practice of a licensed pharmacy when repackaging commercially available medication in small, reasonable quantities for a practitioner legally authorized to prescribe the medication for office use only;
(c) The distribution of a drug product that has been compounded by a licensed pharmacy to other appropriately licensed entities under common ownership or control of the facility in which the compounding takes place; or
(d) The delivery of finished and appropriately labeled compounded products dispensed pursuant to a valid prescription to alternate delivery locations, other than the patient's residence, when requested by the patient, or the prescriber to administer to the patient, or to another licensed pharmacy to dispense to the patient.
(25) "Manufacturer" means a person, corporation, or other entity engaged in the manufacture of drugs or devices.
(26) "Nonlegend" or "nonprescription" drugs means any drugs which may be lawfully sold without a prescription.
(27) "Person" means an individual, corporation, government, governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership or association, or any other legal entity.
(28) "Pharmacist" means a person duly licensed by the commission to engage in the practice of pharmacy.
(29) "Pharmacy" means every place properly licensed by the commission where the practice of pharmacy is conducted.
(30) "Plan of correction" means a proposal devised by the applicant or licensee that includes specific actions that must be taken to correct identified unresolved deficiencies with the time frames to complete them.
(31) "Poison" does not include any article or mixture covered by the Washington pesticide control act (chapter 15.58 RCW), as enacted or hereafter amended.
(32) "Practice of pharmacy" includes the practice of and responsibility for: Interpreting prescription orders; the compounding, dispensing, labeling, administering, and distributing of drugs and devices; the monitoring of drug therapy and use; the initiating or modifying of drug therapy in accordance with written guidelines or protocols previously established and approved for his or her practice by a practitioner authorized to prescribe drugs; the participating in drug utilization reviews and drug product selection; the proper and safe storing and distributing of drugs and devices and maintenance of proper records thereof; the providing of information on legend drugs which may include, but is not limited to, the advising of therapeutic values, hazards, and the uses of drugs and devices.
(33) "Practitioner" means a physician, dentist, veterinarian, nurse, or other person duly authorized by law or rule in the state of Washington to prescribe drugs.
(34) "Prescription" means an order for drugs or devices issued by a practitioner duly authorized by law or rule in the state of Washington to prescribe drugs or devices in the course of his or her professional practice for a legitimate medical purpose.
(35) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the secretary's designee.
(36) "Shared pharmacy services" means a system that allows a participating pharmacist or pharmacy pursuant to a request from another participating pharmacist or pharmacy to process or fill a prescription or drug order, which may include but is not necessarily limited to preparing, packaging, labeling, data entry, compounding for specific patients, dispensing, performing drug utilization reviews, conducting claims adjudication, obtaining refill authorizations, reviewing therapeutic interventions, or reviewing chart orders.
(37) "Statement of deficiency" means a written statement of the deficiencies prepared by the commission, or its designee, identifying one or more violations of law. The report clearly identifies the specific law or rule that has been violated along with a description of the reasons for noncompliance.
(38) "Wholesaler" means a corporation, individual, or other entity which buys drugs or devices for resale and distribution to corporations, individuals, or entities other than consumers.
[ 2024 c 121 s 30; 2021 c 78 s 1. Prior: 2016 c 148 s 1; 2015 c 234 s 3; prior: 2013 c 146 s 1; 2013 c 144 s 13; 2013 c 19 s 7; prior: 2009 c 549 s 1008; 1997 c 129 s 1; 1995 c 319 s 2; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 412; 1984 c 153 s 3; 1982 c 182 s 29; 1979 c 90 s 5; 1963 c 38 s 1.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: The definitions in this section have been alphabetized pursuant to RCW 1.08.015(2)(k).
Effective date—2013 c 146: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 7, 2013]." [ 2013 c 146 s 3.]
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Definitions.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 18.64.020

text:
It shall hereafter be unlawful for any person to practice pharmacy or to institute or operate any pharmacy unless such person shall be a licensed pharmacist or shall place in charge of said pharmacy a licensed pharmacist: PROVIDED, That persons licensed as manufacturers or as wholesalers, and their employees, acting within the scope of their licenses, shall be exempt from this section.
[ 1979 c 90 s 6; 1899 c 121 s 1; RRS s 10126. Prior: 1891 c 113 s 1. Formerly RCW 18.67.010, part.]

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Licensing required.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 18.64.022

text:
This section governs the denial of an application for a license or the suspension, revocation, or modification of a license issued by the commission. This section does not govern actions taken under chapter 18.130 RCW.
(1) The commission shall give written notice of the denial of an application for a license to the applicant or its agent. The form, contents, and service of the notice shall comply with this chapter and the procedural rules adopted by the commission.
(2) The commission shall give written notice of revocation, suspension, or modification of a license to the licensee or its agent. The form, contents, and service of the notice shall comply with this chapter and the procedural rules adopted by the commission.
(3) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, revocation, suspension, or modification is effective 28 days after the licensee or the agent receives the notice.
(a) The commission may make the date the action is effective later than 28 days after receipt. If the commission does so, it shall state the effective date in the written notice given to the licensee or its agent.
(b) The commission may make the date the action is effective sooner than 28 days after receipt when necessary to protect the public health, safety, or welfare. When the commission does so, it shall state the effective date and the reasons supporting the effective date in the written notice given to the licensee or its agent.
(4) Except for licensees suspended for noncompliance with a child support order under chapter 74.20A RCW, a license applicant or licensee who is aggrieved by a commission denial, revocation, suspension, or modification has the right to an adjudicative proceeding. The proceeding is governed by the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. The form, contents, and service of the application for an adjudicative hearing must comply with this chapter and with the procedural rules adopted by the commission and must be served on and received by the commission within 28 days of the applicant or licensee receiving the notice.
(5)(a) If the commission gives a licensee 28 or more days' notice of revocation, suspension, or modification and the licensee files an appeal before its effective date, the commission shall not implement the adverse action until the final order has been entered. The commission may implement part or all of the adverse action while the proceedings are pending if the appellant causes an unreasonable delay in the proceeding, if the circumstances change so that implementation is in the public interest, or for other good cause.
(b) If the commission gives a licensee less than 28 days' notice of revocation, suspension, or modification and the licensee timely files a sufficient appeal, the commission may implement the adverse action on the effective date stated in the notice. The commission may stay implementation of part or all of the adverse action while the proceedings are pending if staying implementation is in the public interest or for other good cause.
(6) The commission may accept the surrender of the licensee's license. A licensee whose surrender has been accepted may not petition for reinstatement of its surrendered license.
[ 2024 c 121 s 31.]

catchline: Actions by the commission against a license—Written notice—Adjudicative proceedings—Surrender.


title: RCW 18.64.024

text:
This section governs the assessment of a civil fine against a licensee issued by the commission. This section does not govern actions taken under chapter 18.130 RCW.
(1) The commission shall give written notice to the licensee or its agent against whom it assesses a civil fine. The form, contents, and service of the notice shall comply with this chapter and the procedural rules adopted by the commission.
(2) The civil fine is due and payable 28 days after receipt by the licensee or its agent. The commission may make the date the fine is due later than 28 days after receipt by the licensee or its agent. When the commission does so, it shall state the date the fine is due in the written notice given to the licensee against whom it assesses the fine.
(3) The licensee against whom the commission assesses a civil fine has the right to an adjudicative proceeding. The proceeding is governed by the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW. The form, contents, and service of the application for an adjudicative hearing must comply with this chapter and the procedural rules adopted by the commission and must be served on and received by the commission within 28 days of the licensee receiving the notice.
[ 2024 c 121 s 32.]

catchline: Actions by the commission against a license—Civil fines.


title: RCW 18.64.026

text:
This section does not govern actions taken under chapter 18.130 RCW.
(1) The commission is authorized to take any of the actions identified in this section against licenses, registrations, permits, or other credentials or approvals issued by the commission under this chapter and chapters 18.64A, 69.38, 69.41, 69.43, 69.45, and 69.50 RCW in any case in which it finds the licensee has failed or refused to comply with any state or federal statute or administrative rule regulating the license in question including, but not limited to, Title 69 RCW, this chapter, chapter 18.64A RCW, and administrative rules adopted by the commission, except as otherwise limited in this section.
(a) When the commission determines a licensee has previously been subject to an enforcement action for the same or similar type of violation of the same or similar statute or rule, or has been given any previous statement of deficiency that included the same or similar type of violation of the same or similar statute or rule, or when the licensee failed to correct noncompliance with a statute or rule by a date established or agreed to by the commission, the commission may impose reasonable conditions on a license. Conditions may include correction within a specified amount of time, a directed plan of correction, training, or hiring a commission-approved consultant if the licensee cannot demonstrate to the commission that it has access to sufficient internal expertise. If the commission determines the violations constitute immediate jeopardy, the conditions may be imposed immediately in accordance with subsection (2)(b) of this section.
(b)(i) In accordance with the commission's authority under RCW 18.64.024, the commission may assess a civil fine of up to $10,000 per violation, not to exceed a total fine of $1,000,000, on a licensee when the commission determines the licensee has previously been subject to an enforcement action for the same or similar type of violation of the same or similar statute or rule, or has been given any previous statement of deficiency that included the same or similar type of violation of the same or similar statute or rule, or when a licensee failed to correct noncompliance with a statute or rule by a date established or agreed to by the commission.
(ii) Proceeds from these fines may only be used by the commission to provide training or technical assistance to licensees and to offset costs associated with licensing and enforcement.
(iii) The commission shall adopt in rules under this chapter to establish specific fine amounts in relation to:
(A) The severity of the noncompliance and at an adequate level to be a deterrent to future noncompliance; and
(B) The operation size of the licensee.
(iv) If a licensee is aggrieved by the commission's action of assessing civil fines, the licensee has the right to appeal under RCW 18.64.024.
(c) The commission may restrict the ability of a licensee to engage in a specific service related to a violation by imposing a limited stop service. This may only be done if the commission finds that noncompliance results in immediate jeopardy.
(i) Prior to imposing a limited stop service, the commission shall provide a licensee written notification upon identifying deficient practices or conditions that constitute an immediate jeopardy. The licensee shall have 24 hours from notification to develop and implement a commission-approved plan to correct the deficient practices or conditions that constitute an immediate jeopardy. If the deficient practices or conditions that constitute immediate jeopardy are not verified by the commission as having been corrected within the same 24-hour period, the commission may issue the limited stop service.
(ii) When the commission imposes a limited stop service, the licensee may not provide the services subject to the limited stop service, unless otherwise allowed by the commission, until the limited stop service order is terminated.
(iii) The commission shall conduct a follow-up inspection within five business days or within the time period requested by the licensee if more than five business days is needed to verify the violation necessitating the limited stop service has been corrected.
(iv) The limited stop service shall be terminated when:
(A) The commission verifies the violation necessitating the limited stop service has been corrected or the commission determines that the licensee has taken intermediate action to address the immediate jeopardy; and
(B) The licensee establishes the ability to maintain correction of the violation previously found deficient.
(d) The commission may deny an application, or suspend, revoke, or modify a license.
(2)(a) Except as otherwise provided, RCW 18.64.022 and 18.64.024 govern notices of actions taken by the commission under subsection (1) of this section and provides the right to an adjudicative proceeding. Adjudicative proceedings and hearings under this section are governed by the administrative procedure act, chapter 34.05 RCW.
(b) When the commission determines a licensee's noncompliance results in immediate jeopardy, the commission may make the imposition of conditions on a licensee, a limited stop service, or the suspension or modification of a license effective immediately upon receipt of the notice by the licensee, pending any adjudicative proceeding.
(i) When the commission makes the suspension or modification of a license or imposition of conditions on a license effective immediately, a licensee is entitled to a show cause hearing before a hearing panel of the commission within 14 days of making the request. The licensee must request the show cause hearing within 28 days of receipt of the notice. At the show cause hearing the commission has the burden of demonstrating that more probably than not there is an immediate jeopardy.
(ii) At the show cause hearing, the commission may consider the notice and documents supporting the immediate imposition of conditions on a licensee, or the suspension or modification of a license, and the licensee's response, and shall provide the parties with an opportunity to provide documentary evidence and written testimony, and to be represented by counsel. Prior to the show cause hearing, the commission shall provide the licensee with all documentation that supports the commission's immediate imposition of conditions on a licensee or suspension or modification of a license.
(iii) If the hearing panel of the commission determines there is no immediate jeopardy, the hearing panel of the commission may overturn the immediate suspension or modification of the license or immediate imposition of conditions.
(iv) If the hearing panel of the commission determines there is immediate jeopardy, the immediate suspension or modification of the license or immediate imposition of conditions shall remain in effect pending a full hearing.
(v) If the commission sustains the immediate suspension or modification of the license or immediate imposition of conditions, the licensee may request an expedited full hearing on the merits. A full hearing must be provided within 90 days of the licensee's request, unless otherwise stipulated by the parties.
(3) The commission may take action under subsection (1) of this section against a nonresident pharmacy for failure to comply with any requirement of RCW 18.64.350 through 18.64.400, conduct that caused injury to a resident of this state, or conduct that resulted in adverse action against the nonresident pharmacy by a federal agency or the regulatory or licensing agency in the state in which the nonresident pharmacy is located.
(4) When the commission determines an alleged violation, if true, would constitute an immediate jeopardy, and the licensee fails to cooperate with the commission's investigation of such an alleged violation, the commission may impose an immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension or modification of a license.
(a) When the commission imposes an immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension or modification of a license for failure to cooperate, a licensee is entitled to a show cause hearing before a presiding officer within 14 days of making the request. The licensee must request the show cause hearing within 28 days of receipt of the notice of an immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension or modification of a license for failure to cooperate. At the show cause hearing the commission has the burden of demonstrating that more probably than not the alleged violation, if true, would constitute an immediate jeopardy and the licensee failed to cooperate with the commission's investigation.
(b) At the show cause hearing, the presiding officer may consider the notice and documents supporting the immediate limited stop service, immediate imposition of conditions, or immediate suspension or modification of a license for failure to cooperate, and the licensee's response and shall provide the parties with an opportunity to provide documentary evidence and written testimony, and to be represented by counsel. Prior to the show cause hearing, the commission shall provide the licensee with all documentation that supports the commission's immediate action for failure to cooperate.
(c) If the presiding officer determines the alleged violation, if true, does not constitute an immediate jeopardy or determines that the licensee cooperated with the commission's investigation, the presiding officer may overturn the immediate action for failure to cooperate.
(d) If the presiding officer determines the allegation, if true, would constitute an immediate jeopardy and the licensee failed to cooperate with the commission's investigation, the immediate action for failure to cooperate shall remain in effect pending a full hearing.
(e) If the presiding officer sustains the immediate action for failure to cooperate, the licensee may request an expedited full hearing on the merits of the commission's action. A full hearing must be provided within 90 days of the licensee's request.
[ 2024 c 121 s 33.]

catchline: Actions by the commission against a license—Actions following licensee's failure or refusal to comply.


title: RCW 18.64.028

text:
This section does not govern actions taken under chapter 18.130 RCW.
(1) A licensee whose license has been suspended under this chapter may petition the commission for reinstatement after an interval as determined by the commission in the order. The commission shall hold hearings on the petition. The commission may deny the petition or may order reinstatement of the licensee's license. The commission may impose terms and conditions in the order of reinstatement.
(2) A licensee whose license has been suspended for noncompliance with a support order or visitation order under RCW 74.20A.320 may petition for reinstatement at any time by providing the commission a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the person is in compliance with the order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for reinstatement during the suspension, the commission shall automatically reissue the person's license upon receipt of the release, and payment of a reinstatement fee, if any.
[ 2024 c 121 s 34.]

catchline: Actions by the commission against a license—Petition for reinstatement.


title: RCW 18.64.040

text:
Every applicant for license examination under this chapter shall pay the sum determined by the secretary under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280 before the examination is attempted.
[ 1996 c 191 s 42; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 413; 1979 c 90 s 7; 1971 ex.s. c 201 s 1; 1963 c 38 s 2; 1949 c 153 s 1; 1935 c 98 s 4; 1909 c 213 s 5; 1899 c 121 s 10; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 10135.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 201: "If any provision of this act, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1971 ex.s. c 201 s 9.]

catchline: Examination fee.


title: RCW 18.64.043

text:
(1) The owner of each pharmacy shall pay an original license fee to be determined by the secretary, and annually thereafter, on or before a date to be determined by the secretary, a fee to be determined by the secretary, for which he or she shall receive a license of location, which shall entitle the owner to operate such pharmacy at the location specified, or such other temporary location as the secretary may approve, for the period ending on a date to be determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280, and each such owner shall at the time of filing proof of payment of such fee as provided in RCW 18.64.045 as now or hereafter amended, file with the commission on a blank therefor provided, a declaration of ownership and location, which declaration of ownership and location so filed as aforesaid shall be deemed presumptive evidence of ownership of the pharmacy mentioned therein.
(2)(a) For a hospital licensed under chapter 70.41 RCW, the license of location provided under this section may include any individual practitioner's office or multipractitioner clinic owned, operated, or under common control with a hospital, and identified by the hospital on the pharmacy application or renewal. The definition of "hospital" under RCW 70.41.020 to exclude "clinics, or physician's offices where patients are not regularly kept as bed patients for twenty-four hours or more," does not limit the ability of a hospital to include individual practitioner's offices or multipractitioner clinics owned, operated, or under common control with a hospital on the pharmacy application or renewal or otherwise prevent the implementation of chapter 118, Laws of 2016. A hospital that elects to include one or more offices or clinics under this subsection on its hospital pharmacy application shall describe the type of services relevant to the practice of pharmacy provided at each such office or clinic as requested by the commission. Any updates to the application, renewal, or related forms that are necessary to accomplish the provision of this licensure option must be made no later than ninety days after June 9, 2016. Nothing in this section limits the ability of a hospital to transfer drugs to another location consistent with federal laws and RCW 70.41.490, regardless of whether or not an election has been made with respect to adding the receiving location to the hospital's pharmacy license under this section.
(b) This chapter must be interpreted in a manner that supports regulatory, inspection, and investigation standards that are reasonable and appropriate based on the level of risk and the type of services provided in a pharmacy, including pharmacy services provided in a hospital and pharmacy services provided in an individual practitioner office or multipractitioner clinic owned, operated, or under common control with a hospital regardless of the office or clinic's physical address. The commission shall provide clear and specific information regarding the standards to which particular pharmacy services will be held, as appropriate, based on the type of pharmacy service provided at a particular location.
(c) The secretary may adopt rules to establish an additional reasonable fee for any such office or clinic.
(3) It shall be the duty of the owner to immediately notify the commission of any change of location, ownership, or licensure and to keep the license of location or the renewal thereof properly exhibited in said pharmacy.
(4) Failure to comply with this section shall be deemed a misdemeanor, and each day that said failure continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
(5) In the event such license fee remains unpaid on the date due, no renewal or new license shall be issued except upon compliance with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees determined as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
(6) If the commission determines that rules are necessary for the immediate implementation of the inspection standards described in this section, it must adopt rules under the emergency rule-making process in RCW 34.05.350, with such emergency rules effective not later than ninety days after June 9, 2016. The commission shall then begin the process to adopt any necessary permanent rules in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW. The commission shall ensure that during the transition to the permanent rules adopted under this section, an emergency rule remains in effect without a break between the original emergency rule and any subsequent emergency rules that may be necessary. The commission shall ensure that during the transition to permanent rules there is no interruption in provision of the licensure option described under this section.
[ 2016 c 118 s 2; 2015 c 234 s 4; 1996 c 191 s 43; 1991 c 229 s 3; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 414; 1984 c 153 s 4; 1979 c 90 s 8; 1971 ex.s. c 201 s 2; 1963 c 38 s 3; 1949 c 153 s 4; 1935 c 98 s 8; 1909 c 213 s 12; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 10145. Formerly RCW 18.67.020.]
Notes:
Intent—2016 c 118: "The intent of this legislation is to make clear the legislature's directive to the commission to allow hospital pharmacy licenses to include individual practitioner offices and multipractitioner clinics owned, operated, or under common control with a hospital and that such offices and clinics are regulated, inspected, and investigated according to the level of service provided. While legislation providing for such a system was enacted in 2015, it has yet to be implemented. The legislature wishes to specify a clear timeline for implementation." [ 2016 c 118 s 1.]
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 201: See note following RCW 18.64.040.

catchline: Pharmacy license—Fee—Display—Declaration of ownership and location—Penalties.


title: RCW 18.64.044

text:
(1) A shopkeeper registered as provided in this section may sell nonprescription drugs, if such drugs are sold in the original package of the manufacturer.
(2) Every shopkeeper not a licensed pharmacist, desiring to secure the benefits and privileges of this section, is required to register as a shopkeeper through the business licensing system established under chapter 19.02 RCW, and he or she must pay the fee determined by the secretary for registration, and on a date to be determined by the secretary thereafter the fee determined by the secretary for renewal of the registration; and must at all times keep said registration or the current renewal thereof conspicuously exposed in the location to which it applies. In event such shopkeeper's registration is not renewed by the business license expiration date, no renewal or new registration may be issued except upon payment of the registration renewal fee and the business license delinquency fee under chapter 19.02 RCW. This registration fee does not authorize the sale of legend drugs or controlled substances.
(3) The registration fees determined by the secretary under subsection (2) of this section may not exceed the cost of registering the shopkeeper.
(4) Any shopkeeper who vends or sells, or offers to sell to the public any such nonprescription drug or preparation without having registered to do so as provided in this section, is guilty of a misdemeanor and each sale or offer to sell constitutes a separate offense.
(5) A shopkeeper who is not a licensed pharmacy may purchase products containing any detectable quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, only from a wholesaler licensed by the department under RCW 18.64.046 or from a manufacturer licensed by the department under RCW 18.64.045. The commission must issue a warning to a shopkeeper who violates this subsection, and may suspend or revoke the registration of the shopkeeper for a subsequent violation.
(6) A shopkeeper who has purchased products containing any detectable quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, in a suspicious transaction as defined in RCW 69.43.035, is subject to the following requirements:
(a) The shopkeeper may not sell any quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, if the total monthly sales of these products exceed ten percent of the shopkeeper's total prior monthly sales of nonprescription drugs in March through October. In November through February, the shopkeeper may not sell any quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, if the total monthly sales of these products exceed twenty percent of the shopkeeper's total prior monthly sales of nonprescription drugs. For purposes of this section, "monthly sales" means total dollars paid by buyers. The commission may suspend or revoke the registration of a shopkeeper who violates this subsection.
(b) The shopkeeper must maintain inventory records of the receipt and disposition of nonprescription drugs, utilizing existing inventory controls if an auditor or investigator can determine compliance with (a) of this subsection, and otherwise in the form and manner required by the commission. The records must be available for inspection by the commission or any law enforcement agency and must be maintained for two years. The commission may suspend or revoke the registration of a shopkeeper who violates this subsection. For purposes of this subsection, "disposition" means the return of product to the wholesaler or distributor.
[ 2013 c 144 s 14; 2013 c 19 s 8; 2005 c 388 s 5; 2004 c 52 s 2. Prior: 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 401; 1989 c 352 s 1; 1984 c 153 s 5; 1982 c 182 s 30; 1979 c 90 s 17.]
Notes:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2013 c 19 s 8 and by 2013 c 144 s 14, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Finding—Effective dates—Severability—2005 c 388: See notes following RCW 69.43.105.
Finding—2004 c 52: "The legislature finds that quantities of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine continue to be sold at the wholesale and retail levels far in excess of legitimate consumer needs. The excess quantities being sold are most likely used in the criminal manufacture of methamphetamine. It is therefore necessary for the legislature to further regulate the sales of these drugs, including sales from out-of-state sources, in order to reduce the threat that methamphetamine presents to the people of the state." [ 2004 c 52 s 1.]
Severability—2004 c 52: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 2004 c 52 s 8.]
Effective date—2004 c 52: "This act takes effect July 1, 2004." [ 2004 c 52 s 9.]
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Business licensing
delinquency fee—Rate—Disposition: RCW 19.02.085.
expiration date: RCW 19.02.090.
system
generally: RCW 18.64.011(2).
to include additional licenses: RCW 19.02.110.


title: RCW 18.64.045

text:
(1) The owner of each and every place of business which manufactures drugs shall pay a license fee to be determined by the secretary, and thereafter, on or before a date to be determined by the secretary, a fee to be determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280, for which the owner shall receive a license of location from the department, which shall entitle the owner to manufacture drugs at the location specified for the period ending on a date to be determined by the secretary, and each such owner shall at the time of payment of such fee file with the department, on a blank therefor provided, a declaration of ownership and location, which declaration of ownership and location so filed as aforesaid shall be deemed presumptive evidence of the ownership of such place of business mentioned therein. It shall be the duty of the owner to notify immediately the department of any change of location or ownership and to keep the license of location or the renewal thereof properly exhibited in such place of business.
(2) Failure to conform with this section is a misdemeanor, and each day that the failure continues is a separate offense.
(3) In event the license fee remains unpaid on the date due, no renewal or new license shall be issued except upon compliance with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees determined as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
[ 2003 c 53 s 132; 1996 c 191 s 44; 1991 c 229 s 4; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 416; 1984 c 153 s 6; 1979 c 90 s 9; 1971 ex.s. c 201 s 3; 1963 c 38 s 4; 1949 c 153 s 5; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 10154-4. Formerly RCW 18.67.140.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 201: See note following RCW 18.64.040.

catchline: Manufacturer's license—Fees—Display—Declaration of ownership and location—Penalties.


title: RCW 18.64.046

text:
(1) Except as provided in subsection (6)(b) of this section, the owner of each place of business which sells legend drugs and nonprescription drugs, or nonprescription drugs at wholesale shall pay a license fee to be determined by the secretary, and thereafter, on or before a date to be determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280, a like fee to be determined by the secretary, for which the owner shall receive a license of location from the department, which shall entitle such owner to either sell legend drugs and nonprescription drugs or nonprescription drugs at wholesale at the location specified for the period ending on a date to be determined by the secretary, and each such owner shall at the time of payment of such fee file with the department, on a blank therefor provided, a declaration of ownership and location, which declaration of ownership and location so filed as aforesaid shall be deemed presumptive evidence of the ownership of such place of business mentioned therein. It shall be the duty of the owner to notify immediately the department of any change of location and ownership and to keep the license of location or the renewal thereof properly exhibited in such place of business.
(2) Failure to conform with this section is a misdemeanor, and each day that the failure continues is a separate offense.
(3) In event the license fee remains unpaid on the date due, no renewal or new license shall be issued except upon compliance with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees determined as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280.
(4) No wholesaler may sell any quantity of drug products containing ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, if the total monthly sales of these products to persons within the state of Washington exceed five percent of the wholesaler's total prior monthly sales of nonprescription drugs to persons within the state in March through October. In November through February, no wholesaler may sell any quantity of drug products containing ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers if the total monthly sales of these products to persons within the state of Washington exceed ten percent of the wholesaler's total prior monthly sales of nonprescription drugs to persons within the state. For purposes of this section, monthly sales means total dollars paid by buyers. The commission may suspend or revoke the license of any wholesaler that violates this section.
(5) The commission may exempt a wholesaler from the limitations of subsection (4) of this section if it finds that the wholesaler distributes nonprescription drugs only through transactions between divisions, subsidiaries, or related companies when the wholesaler and the retailer are related by common ownership, and that neither the wholesaler nor the retailer has a history of suspicious transactions in precursor drugs as defined in RCW 69.43.035.
(6)(a) The requirements for a license apply to all persons, in Washington and outside of Washington, who sell both legend drugs and nonprescription drugs and to those who sell only nonprescription drugs, at wholesale to pharmacies, practitioners, and shopkeepers in Washington.
(b) For purposes of the actions authorized by section 1, chapter 195, Laws of 2023, the department of corrections is exempt from obtaining a wholesaler license as required by this section.
(7)(a) No wholesaler may sell any product containing any detectable quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, to any person in Washington other than a pharmacy licensed under this chapter, a shopkeeper or itinerant vendor registered under this chapter, a practitioner as defined in RCW 18.64.011, or a traditional Chinese herbal practitioner as defined in RCW 69.43.105.
(b) A violation of this subsection is punishable as a class C felony according to chapter 9A.20 RCW, and each sale in violation of this subsection constitutes a separate offense.
[ 2023 c 195 s 3; 2013 c 19 s 9; 2005 c 388 s 6; 2004 c 52 s 3; 2003 c 53 s 133; 1996 c 191 s 45; 1991 c 229 s 5; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 417; 1984 c 153 s 7; 1979 c 90 s 18.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—Retroactive application—Construction—Effective date—2023 c 195: See notes following RCW 72.09.780.
Finding—Effective dates—Severability—2005 c 388: See notes following RCW 69.43.105.
Finding—Severability—Effective date—2004 c 52: See notes following RCW 18.64.044.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Wholesaler's license—Required—Authority of licensee—Penalty—Ephedrine/pseudoephedrine/phenylpropanolamine.


title: RCW 18.64.047

text:
(1) Any itinerant vendor or any peddler of any nonprescription drug or preparation for the treatment of disease or injury, shall pay a registration fee determined by the secretary on a date to be determined by the secretary as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. The department may issue a registration to such vendor on an approved application made to the department.
(2) Any itinerant vendor or peddler who shall vend or sell, or offer to sell to the public any such nonprescription drug or preparation without having registered to do so as provided in this section, is guilty of a misdemeanor and each sale or offer to sell shall constitute a separate offense.
(3) In event the registration fee remains unpaid on the date due, no renewal or new registration shall be issued except upon compliance with administrative procedures, administrative requirements, and fees determined as provided in RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. This registration shall not authorize the sale of legend drugs or controlled substances.
(4) An itinerant vendor may purchase products containing any detectable quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers only from a wholesaler licensed by the department under RCW 18.64.046 or from a manufacturer licensed by the department under RCW 18.64.045. The commission shall issue a warning to an itinerant vendor who violates this subsection, and may suspend or revoke the registration of the vendor for a subsequent violation.
(5) An itinerant vendor who has purchased products containing any detectable quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, in a suspicious transaction as defined in RCW 69.43.035, is subject to the following requirements:
(a) The itinerant vendor may not sell any quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, if the total monthly sales of these products exceed 10 percent of the vendor's total prior monthly sales of nonprescription drugs in March through October. In November through February, the vendor may not sell any quantity of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine, or their salts, isomers, or salts of isomers, if the total monthly sales of these products exceed 20 percent of the vendor's total prior monthly sales of nonprescription drugs. For purposes of this section, "monthly sales" means total dollars paid by buyers.
(b) The itinerant vendor shall maintain inventory records of the receipt and disposition of nonprescription drugs, utilizing existing inventory controls if an auditor or investigator can determine compliance with (a) of this subsection, and otherwise in the form and manner required by the commission. The records must be available for inspection by the commission or any law enforcement agency and must be maintained for two years. The commission may suspend or revoke the registration of an itinerant vendor who violates this subsection. For purposes of this subsection, "disposition" means the return of product to the wholesaler or distributor.
[ 2024 c 121 s 36; 2013 c 19 s 10; 2005 c 388 s 7; 2004 c 52 s 4; 2003 c 53 s 134; 1996 c 191 s 46; 1991 c 229 s 6; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 418; 1984 c 153 s 8; 1979 c 90 s 10; 1971 ex.s. c 201 s 4; 1963 c 38 s 5; 1949 c 153 s 3; 1935 c 98 s 7; 1899 c 121 s 16; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 10141. Formerly RCW 18.60.010 through 18.60.030.]
Notes:
Finding—Effective dates—Severability—2005 c 388: See notes following RCW 69.43.105.
Finding—Severability—Effective date—2004 c 52: See notes following RCW 18.64.044.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 201: See note following RCW 18.64.040.

catchline: Itinerant vendor's or peddler's registration—Fee—Penalties—Ephedrine/pseudoephedrine/phenylpropanolamine.


title: RCW 18.64.050

text:
In the event that a license or certificate issued by the department is lost or destroyed, the person to whom it was issued may obtain a duplicate thereof upon furnishing proof of such fact satisfactory to the department and the payment of a fee determined by the secretary.
In the event any person desires any certified document to which he or she is entitled, he or she shall receive the same upon payment of a fee determined by the secretary.
[ 2011 c 336 s 494; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 419; 1984 c 153 s 9; 1963 c 38 s 6; 1935 c 98 s 9; RRS s 10145-1. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1935 c 98 s 10; RRS s 10145-2, now codified as RCW 18.64.055.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Duplicate for lost or destroyed license or certificate—Certified documents—Fees.


title: RCW 18.64.080

text:
(1) The department may license as a pharmacist any person who has filed an application therefor, subscribed by the person under oath or affirmation, containing such information as the commission may by regulation require, and who—
(a) Is at least eighteen years of age;
(b) Has satisfied the commission that he or she is of good moral and professional character, that he or she will carry out the duties and responsibilities required of a pharmacist, and that he or she is not unfit or unable to practice pharmacy by reason of the extent or manner of his or her proven use of alcoholic beverages, drugs, or controlled substances, or by reason of a proven physical or mental disability;
(c) Holds a baccalaureate degree in pharmacy or a doctor of pharmacy degree granted by a school or college of pharmacy which is accredited by the commission;
(d) Has completed or has otherwise met the internship requirements as set forth in commission rules;
(e) Has satisfactorily passed the necessary examinations approved by the commission and administered by the department.
(2) The department shall, at least once in every calendar year, offer an examination to all applicants for a pharmacist license who have completed their educational and internship requirements pursuant to rules promulgated by the commission. The examination shall be determined by the commission. In case of failure at a first examination, the applicant shall have within three years the privilege of a second and third examination. In case of failure in a third examination, the applicant shall not be eligible for further examination until he or she has satisfactorily completed additional preparation as directed and approved by the commission. The applicant must pay the examination fee determined by the secretary for each examination taken. Upon passing the required examinations and complying with all the rules and regulations of the commission and the provisions of this chapter, the department shall grant the applicant a license as a pharmacist and issue to him or her a certificate qualifying him or her to enter into the practice of pharmacy.
(3) Any person enrolled as a student of pharmacy in an accredited college may file with the department an application for registration as a pharmacy intern in which application he or she shall be required to furnish such information as the commission may, by regulation, prescribe and, simultaneously with the filing of said application, shall pay to the department a fee to be determined by the secretary. All certificates issued to pharmacy interns shall be valid for a period to be determined by the commission, but in no instance shall the certificate be valid if the individual is no longer making timely progress toward graduation, provided however, the commission may issue an intern certificate to a person to complete an internship to be eligible for initial licensure or for the reinstatement of a previously licensed pharmacist.
(4) To assure adequate practical instruction, pharmacy internship experience as required under this chapter shall be obtained after registration as a pharmacy intern by practice in any licensed pharmacy or other program meeting the requirements promulgated by regulation of the commission, and shall include such instruction in the practice of pharmacy as the commission by regulation shall prescribe.
(5) The department may, without examination other than one in the laws relating to the practice of pharmacy, license as a pharmacist any person who, at the time of filing application therefor, is currently licensed as a pharmacist in any other state, territory, or possession of the United States. The person shall produce evidence satisfactory to the department of having had the required secondary and professional education and training and who was licensed as a pharmacist by examination in another state prior to June 13, 1963, shall be required to satisfy only the requirements which existed in this state at the time he or she became licensed in such other state, and that the state in which the person is licensed shall under similar conditions grant reciprocal licenses as pharmacist without examination to pharmacists duly licensed by examination in this state. Every application under this subsection shall be accompanied by a fee determined by the department.
(6) The department shall provide for, regulate, and require all persons licensed as pharmacists to renew their license periodically, and shall prescribe the form of such license and information required to be submitted by all applicants.
[ 2013 c 19 s 11. Prior: 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 ss 403, 420; 1989 c 352 s 3; 1984 c 153 s 10; 1981 c 147 s 1; 1979 c 90 s 11; 1972 ex.s. c 9 s 1; prior: 1971 ex.s. c 292 s 25; 1971 ex.s. c 201 s 5; 1963 c 38 s 7; 1931 c 56 s 1; 1927 c 253 s 1; 1923 c 180 s 3; RRS s 10126-3. Formerly RCW 18.64.010, part, 18.64.080 and 18.64.090, part.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Licensing of pharmacists—Registration of interns—Prerequisites—Examinations—Reciprocity—Fees—Renewal.


title: RCW 18.64.140

text:
Every licensed pharmacist who desires to practice pharmacy shall secure from the department a license, the fee for which shall be determined by the secretary under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. The administrative procedures, administrative requirements, renewal fee, and late renewal fee shall also be determined under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. Payment of this fee shall entitle the licensee to a pharmacy law book, subsequent current mailings of all additions, changes, or deletions in the pharmacy practice act, chapter 18.64 RCW, and all additions, changes, or deletions of commission and department regulations. The current license shall be conspicuously displayed to the public in the pharmacy to which it applies. Any licensed pharmacist who desires to leave the active practice of pharmacy in this state may secure from the department an inactive license. The initial license and renewal fees shall be determined by the secretary under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. The holder of an inactive license may reactivate his or her license to practice pharmacy in accordance with rules adopted by the commission.
[ 2013 c 19 s 12; 1996 c 191 s 47; 1991 c 229 s 7; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 421; 1984 c 153 s 11; 1979 c 90 s 12; 1971 ex.s. c 201 s 6; 1963 c 38 s 9; 1949 c 153 s 2; 1935 c 98 s 5; 1899 c 121 s 11; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 10136. Formerly RCW 18.64.140 and 18.64.150.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 201: See note following RCW 18.64.040.

catchline: License—Fees—Display—Inactive license.


title: RCW 18.64.160

text:
In addition to the grounds under RCW 18.130.170 and 18.130.180, the commission may take disciplinary action against the license of any pharmacist or intern upon proof that:
(1) His or her license was procured through fraud, misrepresentation, or deceit;
(2) In the event that a pharmacist is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be mentally incompetent, the pharmacist shall automatically have his or her license suspended by the commission upon the entry of the judgment, regardless of the pendency of an appeal;
(3) He or she has knowingly violated or permitted the violation of any provision of any state or federal law, rule, or regulation governing the possession, use, distribution, or dispensing of drugs, including, but not limited to, the violation of any provision of this chapter, Title 69 RCW, or rule or regulation of the commission;
(4) He or she has knowingly allowed any unlicensed person to take charge of a pharmacy or engage in the practice of pharmacy, except a pharmacy intern or pharmacy assistant acting as authorized in this chapter or chapter 18.64A RCW in the presence of and under the immediate supervision of a licensed pharmacist;
(5) He or she has compounded, dispensed, or caused the compounding or dispensing of any drug or device which contains more or less than the equivalent quantity of ingredient or ingredients specified by the person who prescribed such drug or device: PROVIDED, HOWEVER, That nothing herein shall be construed to prevent the pharmacist from exercising professional judgment in the preparation or providing of such drugs or devices.
[ 2013 c 19 s 13; 1993 c 367 s 13; 1985 c 7 s 60; 1984 c 153 s 12; 1979 c 90 s 13; 1963 c 38 s 10; 1909 c 213 s 10; RRS s 10143. Formerly RCW 18.64.160 through 18.64.190.]

catchline: Disciplinary action against pharmacist's and intern's licenses—Grounds.


title: RCW 18.64.162

text:
The uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs unlicensed practice of persons required to obtain a license under this chapter.
[ 2024 c 121 s 35.]

catchline: Unlicensed practice—Uniform Disciplinary Act.


title: RCW 18.64.163

text:
The Uniform Disciplinary Act, chapter 18.130 RCW, governs unlicensed practice, the issuance and denial of licenses of pharmacists and pharmacy interns, and the discipline of licensed pharmacists and pharmacy interns under this chapter.
[ 1993 c 367 s 14.]

catchline: Uniform Disciplinary Act.


title: RCW 18.64.165

text:
In addition to any other grounds, the commission may take action against a license issued under this chapter and chapters 18.64A, 69.38, 69.41, 69.43, 69.45, and 69.50 RCW, except nonresident pharmacies, upon proof that:
(1) The license was procured through fraud, misrepresentation, or deceit;
(2) Except as provided in RCW 9.97.020, the licensee has violated or has permitted any employee to violate any of the laws of this state or the United States relating to drugs, controlled substances, cosmetics, or nonprescription drugs, or has violated any of the rules and regulations of the commission or has been convicted of a felony.
[ 2024 c 121 s 37; 2016 c 81 s 10; 2013 c 19 s 14; 1995 c 319 s 5. Prior: 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 404; 1989 c 352 s 4; 1979 c 90 s 14; 1963 c 38 s 15.]
Notes:
Finding—Conflict with federal requirements—2016 c 81: See notes following RCW 9.97.010.
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.
Violation of chapter 69.50 RCW, the Uniform Controlled Substances Act—Suspension of license: RCW 69.50.413.

catchline: Additional actions against license.


title: RCW 18.64.205

text:
The commission may adopt rules pursuant to this section authorizing a retired active license status. An individual licensed pursuant to this chapter, who is practicing only in emergent or intermittent circumstances as defined by rule established by the commission, may hold a retired active license at a reduced renewal fee established by the secretary under RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. Such a license shall meet the continuing education requirements, if any, established by the commission for renewals, and is subject to the provisions of the uniform disciplinary act, chapter 18.130 RCW. Individuals who have entered into retired status agreements with the disciplinary authority in any jurisdiction shall not qualify for a retired active license under this section.
[ 2013 c 19 s 16; 1996 c 191 s 48; 1991 c 229 s 2.]

catchline: Retired active license status.


title: RCW 18.64.245

text:
(1) Every proprietor or manager of a pharmacy shall keep readily available a suitable record of prescriptions which shall preserve for a period of not less than two years the record of every prescription dispensed at such pharmacy which shall be numbered, dated, and filed, and shall produce the same in court or before any grand jury whenever lawfully required to do so. The record shall be maintained either separately from all other records of the pharmacy or in such form that the information required is readily retrievable from ordinary business records of the pharmacy. All recordkeeping requirements for controlled substances must be complied with. Such record of prescriptions shall be for confidential use in the pharmacy, only. The record of prescriptions shall be open for inspection by the commission or any officer of the law, who is authorized to enforce this chapter or chapter 69.41 or 69.50 RCW.
(2) When a pharmacy receives a prescription in digital or electronic format through facsimile equipment transmitting an exact visual image of the prescription, or through electronic communication of prescription information, the digital or electronic record of every such prescription dispensed at the pharmacy constitutes a suitable record of prescriptions, provided that the original or direct copy of the prescription is electronically or digitally numbered or referenced, dated, and filed in a form that permits the information required to be readily retrievable.
(3) A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.
[ 2016 c 148 s 17; 2013 c 19 s 17; 2003 c 53 s 135. Prior: 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 402; 1989 c 352 s 2; 1979 c 90 s 15; 1939 c 28 s 1; RRS s 6154-1. Formerly RCW 18.67.090.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Prescription records—Digital or electronic form—Penalty.


title: RCW 18.64.246

text:
(1) To every box, bottle, jar, tube or other container of a prescription which is dispensed there shall be fixed a label bearing the name and address of the dispensing pharmacy, the prescription number, the name of the prescriber, the prescriber's directions, the name and strength of the medication, the name of the patient, the date, and the expiration date. The security of the cover or cap on every bottle or jar shall meet safety standards adopted by the commission. At the prescriber's request, the name and strength of the medication need not be shown. If the prescription is for a combination medication product, the generic names of the medications combined or the trade name used by the manufacturer or distributor for the product shall be noted on the label. The identification of the licensed pharmacist responsible for each dispensing of medication must either be recorded in the pharmacy's record system or on the prescription label. This section shall not apply to the dispensing of medications to in-patients in hospitals.
(2) A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.
[ 2013 c 19 s 18; 2003 c 53 s 136; 2002 c 96 s 1; 1984 c 153 s 13; 1971 ex.s. c 99 s 1; 1939 c 28 s 2; RRS s 6154-2. Formerly RCW 18.67.080.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

catchline: Prescriptions—Labels—Cover or cap to meet safety standards—Penalty.


title: RCW 18.64.250

text:
(1) Any person not a licensed pharmacist and not having continuously and regularly in his employ a duly licensed pharmacist within the full meaning of this chapter, who shall practice pharmacy; or
(2) Any person who shall permit the compounding and dispensing of prescriptions, or vending of drugs, medicines, or poisons in his or her store or place of business, except under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist; or
(3) Any licensed pharmacist or shopkeeper licensed under this chapter, who while continuing in business, shall fail or neglect to procure his or her renewal of license; or
(4) Any person who shall wilfully make any false representations to procure a license for himself or herself or for any other person; or
(5) Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this chapter wilfully and knowingly; or
(6) Any person who shall take or use or exhibit in or upon any place of business, or advertise in a newspaper, telephone directory, or other directory, or by electronic media, or in any other manner, the title of pharmacist, pharmacy intern, pharmacy assistant, druggist, pharmacy, drug store, medicine store, drug department, drugs, drug sundries, or any title or name of like description or import, or display or permit to be displayed upon said place of business the characteristic pharmacy symbols, bottles or globes, either colored or filled with colored liquids, without having continuously and regularly employed in his or her shop, store, or place of business, during business hours of the pharmacy, a pharmacist duly licensed under this chapter;
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and each and every day that such prohibited practice continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
[ 1979 c 90 s 16; 1963 c 38 s 12; 1935 c 98 s 6; 1909 c 213 s 7; 1899 c 121 s 13; RRS s 10138. Formerly RCW 18.64.250, 18.64.010, 18.64.030, 18.67.030, 18.67.040 and 18.67.130. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1909 c 213 s 13; RRS s 10146, now codified as RCW 18.64.280.]

catchline: Unlawful practices—Penalty for violations—Exceptions.


title: RCW 18.64.253

text:
(1) This chapter does not prohibit a student from practicing pharmacy if:
(a) The student is enrolled in a college or school of pharmacy accredited by the commission and is registered as a pharmacy intern under RCW 18.64.080;
(b) The student performs services without compensation or the expectation of compensation as part of a volunteer activity;
(c) The student is under the direct supervision of a pharmacist licensed under this chapter, a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or a registered nurse or *advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW;
(d) The services the student performs are within the scope of practice of: (i) A pharmacist licensed under this chapter; and (ii) the person supervising the student;
(e) The college or school in which the student is enrolled verifies that the student has demonstrated competency through his or her education and training to perform the services; and
(f) The student provides proof of current malpractice insurance to the volunteer activity organizer prior to performing any services.
(2) The commission may adopt rules to implement the requirements of this section.
[ 2019 c 270 s 1.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: The term "advanced registered nurse practitioner" was changed to "advanced practice registered nurse" by 2024 c 239 s 1, effective June 30, 2027.
PDF
RCW 18.64.253
Students practicing pharmacy—Rules. (Effective June 30, 2027.)
(1) This chapter does not prohibit a student from practicing pharmacy if:
(a) The student is enrolled in a college or school of pharmacy accredited by the commission and is registered as a pharmacy intern under RCW 18.64.080;
(b) The student performs services without compensation or the expectation of compensation as part of a volunteer activity;
(c) The student is under the direct supervision of a pharmacist licensed under this chapter, a physician licensed under chapter 18.71 RCW, an osteopathic physician and surgeon licensed under chapter 18.57 RCW, or a registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse licensed under chapter 18.79 RCW;
(d) The services the student performs are within the scope of practice of: (i) A pharmacist licensed under this chapter; and (ii) the person supervising the student;
(e) The college or school in which the student is enrolled verifies that the student has demonstrated competency through his or her education and training to perform the services; and
(f) The student provides proof of current malpractice insurance to the volunteer activity organizer prior to performing any services.
(2) The commission may adopt rules to implement the requirements of this section.
[ 2025 c 58 s 5075; 2019 c 270 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 58 ss 5058-5170: See note following RCW 7.68.030.
Explanatory note—2025 c 58: See note following RCW 1.16.050.

catchline: Students practicing pharmacy—Rules. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)


title: RCW 18.64.255

text:
Nothing in this chapter shall operate in any manner:
(1) To restrict the scope of authorized practice of any practitioner other than a pharmacist, duly licensed as such under the laws of this state. However, a health care entity shall comply with all state and federal laws and rules relating to the dispensing of drugs and the practice of pharmacy; or
(2) In the absence of the pharmacist from the hospital pharmacy, to prohibit a registered nurse designated by the hospital and the responsible pharmacist from obtaining from the hospital pharmacy such drugs as are needed in an emergency: PROVIDED, That proper record is kept of such emergency, including the date, time, name of prescriber, the name of the nurse obtaining the drugs, and a list of what drugs and quantities of same were obtained; or
(3) To prevent shopkeepers, itinerant vendors, peddlers, or salespersons from dealing in and selling nonprescription drugs, if such drugs are sold in the original packages of the manufacturer, or in packages put up by a licensed pharmacist in the manner provided by the commission, if such shopkeeper, itinerant vendor, salesperson, or peddler shall have obtained a registration.
[ 2013 c 19 s 19; 2011 c 336 s 495; 1995 c 319 s 7; 1984 c 153 s 14; 1981 c 147 s 3; 1979 c 90 s 19.]

catchline: Authorized practices.


title: RCW 18.64.257

text:
(1) This chapter shall not prevent a medicare-approved dialysis center, a facility operating a medicare-approved home dialysis program, a manufacturer, or a wholesaler, from selling, delivering, possessing, or dispensing directly to its dialysis patients, if prescribed by a practitioner acting within the scope of the practitioner's practice, those dialysis devices and legend drugs, including commercially available dialysate, used by home dialysis patients, in case or full shelf lots, as determined by the commission.
(2) The commission shall adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2022 c 23 s 1; 2013 c 19 s 20; 1987 c 41 s 1.]
Notes:
Application of legend drug statutes to dialysis programs: RCW 69.41.032.

catchline: Prescription of dialysis devices and legend drugs by dialysis programs.


title: RCW 18.64.265

text:
A pharmacist may partially fill a prescription for a Schedule II controlled substance, if the partial fill is requested by the patient or the prescribing practitioner and the total quantity dispensed in all partial fillings does not exceed the quantity prescribed.
[ 2019 c 314 s 7.]
Notes:
Declaration—2019 c 314: See note following RCW 18.22.810.

catchline: Schedule II controlled substance—Partial fill permitted.


title: RCW 18.64.270

text:
(1) Every proprietor of a wholesale or retail drug store shall be held responsible for the quality of all drugs, chemicals or medicines sold or dispensed by him or her except those sold in original packages of the manufacturer and except those articles or preparations known as patent or proprietary medicines.
(2) Any medicinal products that are compounded for patient administration or distribution to a licensed practitioner for patient use or administration shall, at a minimum, meet the standards of the official United States pharmacopeia as it applies to nonsterile products and sterile administered products.
(3) Any person who shall knowingly, willfully or fraudulently falsify or adulterate any drug or medicinal substance or preparation authorized or recognized by an official compendium or used or intended to be used in medical practice, or shall willfully, knowingly or fraudulently offer for sale, sell or cause the same to be sold for medicinal purposes, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine in any sum not less than seventy-five nor more than one hundred and fifty dollars or by imprisonment in the county jail for a period of not less than one month nor more than three months, and any person convicted a third time for violation of this section may suffer both fine and imprisonment. In any case he or she shall forfeit to the state of Washington all drugs or preparations so falsified or adulterated.
[ 2013 c 146 s 2; 2003 c 53 s 137; 1963 c 38 s 13; 1899 c 121 s 14; RRS s 10139. Prior: 1891 c 153 s 15. Formerly RCW 18.67.100 and 18.67.120.]
Notes:
Effective date—2013 c 146: See note following RCW 18.64.011.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

catchline: Responsibility for drug purity—Compounding—Adulteration—Penalty.


title: RCW 18.64.275

text:
(1) A pharmacist who dispenses a prescription product in the form manufactured by a commercial manufacturer pursuant to a prescription issued by a licensed practitioner is not liable to a person who was injured through the use of the product, based on a claim of the following:
(a) Strict liability in tort; or
(b) Implied warranty provisions under the uniform commercial code Title 62A RCW.
(2) The limitation on pharmacist's liability as provided in subsection (1) of this section shall only apply if the pharmacist complies with recordkeeping requirements pursuant to chapters 18.64, 69.41, and 69.50 RCW, and related administrative rules.
(3) A pharmacist who dispenses a prescription product in the form manufactured by a commercial manufacturer issued by a licensed practitioner is liable to the claimant only if the claimant's harm was proximately caused by (a) the negligence of the pharmacist; (b) breach of an express warranty made by the pharmacist; or (c) the intentional misrepresentation of facts about the product by the pharmacist or the intentional concealment of information about the product by the pharmacist. A pharmacist shall not be liable for the product manufacturer's liability except as provided in RCW 7.72.040.
[ 1991 c 189 s 1.]

catchline: Limitations on liability for dispensing of prescription.


title: RCW 18.64.280

text:
Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of chapter 18.64 RCW and for which a penalty is not provided shall be deemed guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
[ 1963 c 38 s 14; 1909 c 213 s 13; RRS s 10146. Formerly RCW 18.64.250, part.]

catchline: General penalty.


title: RCW 18.64.310

text:
The department shall:
(1) Establish reasonable license and examination fees and fees for services to other agencies in accordance with RCW 43.70.250 and 43.70.280. In cases where there are unanticipated demands for services, the department may request payment for services directly from the agencies for whom the services are performed, to the extent that revenues or other funds are available. Drug-related investigations regarding licensed health care practitioners shall be funded by an appropriation to the department from the health professions account. The payment may be made on either an advance or a reimbursable basis as approved by the director of financial management;
(2) Employ, with confirmation by the commission, an executive officer, who shall be exempt from the provisions of chapter 41.06 RCW and who shall employ inspectors, investigators, chemists, and other persons as necessary to assist it for any purpose which it may deem necessary;
(3) Investigate and prosecute, at the direction of the commission, including use of subpoena powers, violations of law or regulations under its jurisdiction or the jurisdiction of the commission;
(4) Make, at the direction of the commission, inspections and investigations of pharmacies and other places, including dispensing machines, in which drugs or devices are stored, held, compounded, dispensed, sold, or administered to the ultimate consumer, to take and analyze any drugs or devices and to seize and condemn any drugs or devices which are adulterated, misbranded, stored, held, dispensed, distributed, administered, or compounded in violation of or contrary to law. The written operating agreement between the department and the commission, as required by RCW 43.70.240 shall include provisions for the department to involve the commission in carrying out its duties required by this section.
[ 2022 c 240 s 16; 2013 c 19 s 21; 1996 c 191 s 49; 1989 1st ex.s. c 9 s 410.]
Notes:
Effective date—Severability—1989 1st ex.s. c 9: See RCW 43.70.910 and 43.70.920.

catchline: Department of health—Powers and duties.


title: RCW 18.64.350

text:
(1) The legislature finds and declares that the practice of pharmacy is a dynamic, patient-oriented health service that applies a scientific body of knowledge to improve and promote patient health by means of appropriate drug use and drug-related therapy.
(2) The legislature recognizes that with the proliferation of alternate methods of health delivery, there has arisen among third-party payors and insurance companies the desire to control the cost and utilization of pharmacy services through a variety of mechanisms, including the use of mail order pharmacies located outside the state of Washington.
(3) As a result, the legislature finds and declares that to continue to protect the Washington consumer-patient, all out-of-state pharmacies, including those located in Canada, that provide services to Washington residents shall be licensed by the department of health, disclose specific information about their services, and provide pharmacy services at a high level of protection and competence.
[ 2005 c 275 s 2; 1991 c 87 s 1.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2005 c 275: "The legislature finds that as consumers' prescription drug costs continue to rise, people across the state of Washington are exercising the option to purchase prescription drugs from Canada for their personal use. The state has a strong interest in the safety of drugs purchased through this mechanism. To address this interest, the legislature intends to authorize the *state board of pharmacy to regulate nonresident Canadian pharmacies." [ 2005 c 275 s 1.]
*Reviser's note: Chapter 19, Laws of 2013 changed "state board of pharmacy" to "pharmacy quality assurance commission."
Effective date—1991 c 87: "This act shall take effect October 1, 1991." [ 1991 c 87 s 15.]

catchline: Nonresident pharmacies—Findings.


title: RCW 18.64.360

text:
(1) For the purposes of this chapter any pharmacy located outside this state that ships, mails, or delivers, in any manner, except when delivered in person to an individual, controlled substances, legend drugs, or devices into this state is a nonresident pharmacy, and shall be licensed by the department of health, and shall disclose to the department the following:
(a) The location, names, and titles of all owners including corporate officers and all pharmacists employed by the pharmacy who are dispensing controlled substances, legend drugs, or devices to residents of this state. A report containing this information shall be made on an annual basis and within ninety days after a change of location, corporate officer, or pharmacist;
(b) Proof of compliance with all lawful directions and requests for information from the regulatory or licensing agency of the state or Canadian province in which it is licensed as well as with all requests for information made by the department of health under this section. The nonresident pharmacy shall maintain, at all times, a valid unexpired license, permit, or registration to operate the pharmacy in compliance with the laws of the state or Canadian province in which it is located. As a prerequisite for initial licensure and renewal of a license by the department of health, the nonresident pharmacy must submit a copy of an inspection report:
(i) Conducted by an inspection program approved by the commission as having substantially equivalent standards to those of the commission; and
(ii) Issued within two years of application or renewal of a license; and
(c) Proof that it maintains its records of controlled substances, legend drugs, or devices dispensed to patients in this state so that the records are readily retrievable from the records of other drugs dispensed.
(2) Any pharmacy subject to this section shall, during its regular hours of operation, provide a toll-free telephone service to facilitate communication between patients in this state and a pharmacist at the pharmacy who has access to the patient's records. This toll-free number shall be disclosed on the label affixed to each container of drugs dispensed to patients in this state.
(3) A pharmacy subject to this section shall comply with commission rules regarding the maintenance and use of patient medication record systems.
(4) A pharmacy subject to this section shall comply with commission rules regarding the provision of drug information to the patient. Drug information may be contained in written form setting forth directions for use and any additional information necessary to assure the proper utilization of the medication prescribed. A label bearing the expiration date of the prescription must be affixed to each box, bottle, jar, tube, or other container of a prescription that is dispensed in this state by a pharmacy subject to this section.
(5) A pharmacy subject to this section shall not dispense medication in a quantity greater than authorized by the prescriber.
(6) The license fee specified by the secretary, in accordance with the provisions of RCW 43.70.250, shall not exceed the fee charged to a pharmacy located in this state.
(7) The license requirements of this section apply to nonresident pharmacies that ship, mail, or deliver controlled substances, legend drugs, and devices into this state only under a prescription. The commission may grant an exemption from licensing under this section upon application by an out-of-state pharmacy that restricts its dispensing activity in Washington to isolated transactions.
(8) Each nonresident pharmacy that ships, mails, or delivers legend drugs or devices into this state shall designate a resident agent in Washington for service of process. The designation of such an agent does not indicate that the nonresident pharmacy is a resident of Washington for tax purposes.
(9) The commission shall attempt to develop a reciprocal licensing agreement for licensure of nonresident pharmacies with Health Canada or an applicable Canadian province. If the commission is unable to develop such an agreement, the commission shall develop a process to license participating Canadian nonresident pharmacies through on-site inspection and certification.
[ 2019 c 25 s 1; 2013 c 19 s 22; 2005 c 275 s 3; 1996 c 109 s 1; 1991 c 87 s 2.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2005 c 275: See note following RCW 18.64.350.
Effective date—1991 c 87: See note following RCW 18.64.350.

catchline: Nonresident pharmacies—Definition—Requirements—Exemption—Reciprocity with Canadian pharmacies.


title: RCW 18.64.370

text:
(1) A nonresident pharmacy that has not obtained a license from the department of health shall not conduct the business of selling or distributing drugs in this state.
(2) Applications for a nonresident pharmacy license under RCW 18.64.350 through 18.64.400 shall be made on a form furnished by the department. The department may require such information as it deems is reasonably necessary to carry out the purpose of RCW 18.64.350 through 18.64.400.
(3) The nonresident pharmacy license shall be renewed annually on a date to be established by the department by rule. In the event the license fee remains unpaid, no renewal or new license shall be issued except upon payment of the license renewal fee and a penalty fee equal to the original license fee.
[ 1991 c 87 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—1991 c 87: See note following RCW 18.64.350.


title: RCW 18.64.380

text:
A nonresident pharmacy shall:
(1) Submit to the department, upon request, information acceptable to the secretary concerning controlled substances shipped, mailed, or delivered to a Washington resident.
(2) Submit to on-site inspection by the department of the nonresident pharmacy's prescription records if the information in subsection (1) of this section is not provided to the department upon request.
[ 1991 c 87 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—1991 c 87: See note following RCW 18.64.350.


title: RCW 18.64.400

text:
For the purposes of this chapter, a nonresident pharmacy is defined as any pharmacy located outside this state that ships, mails, or delivers, in any manner, except when delivered in person to an individual, controlled substances, legend drugs, or devices into this state. It is unlawful for:
(1) Any nonresident pharmacy that is not licensed under RCW 18.64.350 through 18.64.400 to advertise its service in this state; or
(2) Any resident of this state to advertise the pharmaceutical services of a nonresident pharmacy with the knowledge that the nonresident pharmacy is not licensed by the department and that the advertisement will or is likely to induce persons within this state to use the nonresident pharmacy to fill prescriptions.
[ 1991 c 87 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—1991 c 87: See note following RCW 18.64.350.


title: RCW 18.64.410

text:
The commission may adopt rules to implement the provisions of RCW 18.64.350 through 18.64.400 and 18.64.420.
[ 2013 c 19 s 24; 1991 c 87 s 11.]
Notes:
Effective date—1991 c 87: See note following RCW 18.64.350.

catchline: Nonresident pharmacies—Rules.


title: RCW 18.64.420

text:
All records, reports, and information obtained by the department from or on behalf of an entity licensed under chapter 48.20, 48.21, 48.44, or 48.46 RCW shall be confidential and exempt from inspection and copying under chapter 42.56 RCW. Nothing in this section restricts the investigation or the proceedings of the commission or the department so long as the commission and the department comply with the provisions of chapter 42.56 RCW. Nothing in this section or in chapter 42.56 RCW shall restrict the commission or the department from complying with any mandatory reporting requirements that exist or may exist under federal law, nor shall the commission or the department be restricted from providing to any person the name of any nonresident pharmacy that is or has been licensed or disciplined under RCW 18.64.350 through 18.64.400.
[ 2013 c 19 s 25; 2005 c 274 s 226; 1991 c 87 s 12.]
Notes:
Effective date—1991 c 87: See note following RCW 18.64.350.


title: RCW 18.64.430

text:
The registered or licensed pharmacist under this chapter shall establish and maintain a procedure for disclosing to physicians and other health care providers with prescriptive authority information detailed by prescriber, of the cost and dispensation of all prescriptive medications prescribed by him or her for his or her patients on request. These charges should be made available on at least a quarterly basis for all requested patients and should include medication, dosage, number dispensed, and the cost of the prescription. Pharmacies may provide this information in a summary form for each prescribing physician for all patients rather than as individually itemized reports. All efforts should be made to utilize the existing computerized records and software to provide this information in the least costly format.
[ 2000 c 171 s 22; 1993 c 492 s 267.]
Notes:
Cost containment—1993 c 492: "The legislature finds that the spiraling costs of health care continue to surmount efforts to contain them, increasing at approximately twice the inflationary rate. One of the fastest growing segments of the health care expenditure involves prescription medications. By making physicians and other health care providers with prescriptive authority more aware of the cost consequences of health care treatments for consumers, these providers may be inclined to exercise more restraint in providing only the most relevant and cost-beneficial drug and medication treatments. The requirement of the pharmacy to inform physicians and other health care providers of the charges of prescription drugs and medications that they order may have a positive effect on containing health costs. Further, the option of the physician or other health care provider to inform the patient of these charges may strengthen the necessary dialogue in the provider-patient relationship that tends to be diminished by intervening third-party payers." [ 1993 c 492 s 266.]
Findings—Intent—1993 c 492: See notes following RCW 43.20.050.
Short title—Savings—Reservation of legislative power—Effective dates—1993 c 492: See RCW 43.72.910 through 43.72.915.

catchline: Cost disclosure to health care providers.


title: RCW 18.64.450

text:
(1) In order for a health care entity to purchase, administer, dispense, and deliver legend drugs, the health care entity must be licensed by the department.
(2) In order for a health care entity to purchase, administer, dispense, and deliver controlled substances, the health care entity must annually obtain a license from the department in accordance with the commission's rules.
(3) The receipt, administration, dispensing, and delivery of legend drugs or controlled substances by a health care entity must be performed under the supervision or at the direction of a pharmacist.
(4) A health care entity may only administer, dispense, or deliver legend drugs and controlled substances to patients who receive care within the health care entity and in compliance with rules of the commission. Nothing in this subsection shall prohibit a practitioner, in carrying out his or her licensed responsibilities within a health care entity, from dispensing or delivering to a patient of the health care entity drugs for that patient's personal use in an amount not to exceed 72 hours of usage. The 72-hour limit does not apply when:
(a) Community or hospital outpatient pharmacy services will not be available within 72 hours;
(b) Anti-infectives or human immunodeficiency virus postexposure prophylaxis drugs or therapies are required; or
(c) Drugs or therapies are packaged directly by the manufacturer in quantities larger than a 72-hour supply that cannot be altered to limit the quantity to a 72-hour supply.
(5) Nothing in this section permits a health care entity to bill separately for drugs or therapies dispensed pursuant to subsection (4)(a) through (c) of this section.
[ 2025 c 213 s 2; 2013 c 19 s 26; 1995 c 319 s 3.]

catchline: Health care entity—License requirements for legend drugs and controlled substances—Exception.


title: RCW 18.64.460

text:
(1) The owner of a health care entity shall pay an original license fee to be determined by the secretary, and annually thereafter, on or before a date to be determined by the secretary, a fee to be determined by the secretary, for which he or she shall receive a license of location, which shall entitle the owner to purchase legend drugs or controlled substances at the location specified for the period ending on a date to be determined by the secretary. A declaration of ownership and location filed with the department under this section shall be deemed presumptive evidence of ownership of the health care entity.
(2) The owner shall immediately notify the department of any change of location or ownership in which case a new application and fee shall be submitted.
(3) It shall be the duty of the owner to keep the license of location or the renewal license properly exhibited in the health care entity.
(4) Failure to comply with this section is a misdemeanor and each day that the failure continues is a separate offense.
(5) In the event that a license fee remains unpaid after the date due, no renewal or new license may be issued except upon payment of the license renewal fee and a penalty fee equal to the original license fee.
[ 1995 c 319 s 4.]

catchline: Health care entity—License fee—Requirements—Penalty.


title: RCW 18.64.470

text:
Every proprietor or manager of a health care entity shall keep readily available a suitable record of drugs, which shall preserve for a period of not less than two years the record of every drug used at such health care entity. The record shall be maintained either separately from all other records of the health care entity or in such form that the information required is readily retrievable from ordinary business records of the health care entity. All recordkeeping requirements for controlled substances must be complied with. Such record of drugs shall be for confidential use in the health care entity, only. The record of drugs shall be open for inspection by the commission, who is authorized to enforce chapter 18.64, 69.41, or 69.50 RCW.
[ 2013 c 19 s 27; 1995 c 319 s 6.]

catchline: Health care entity—Records.


title: RCW 18.64.480

text:
(1) By September 1, 2005, the commission shall, in consultation with the department and the health care authority, submit a waiver request to the federal food and drug administration that authorizes the importation of prescription drugs from Canada.
(2) Upon approval of the federal waiver allowing for the importation of prescription drugs from Canada, the commission, in consultation with the department and the health care authority, shall license Canadian pharmacies that provide services to Washington residents under RCW 18.64.350 and 18.64.360.
[ 2013 c 19 s 28; 2005 c 275 s 4.]
Notes:
Finding—Intent—2005 c 275: See note following RCW 18.64.350.

catchline: Waiver request to allow importation of prescription drugs from Canada.