Obtaining Accreditation by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board, Part 3: Developing a Program of Quality Assurance and Continuous Quality Improvement

Author(s):  Cabaleiro Joe

Issue:  May/Jun 2008 - Pain Management
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Abstract:  Before a compounding pharmacy can receive accreditation from the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board, the pharmacy must show evidence of both quality assurance activities and continuous quality improvement activities. Although quality assurance data gathering and monitoring can be integrated into pharmacy activities fairly easily, the continuous quality improvement program may take a little more time and effort to implement. Before integrating these programs, compounding pharmacists must have a complete understanding of the differences between these two programs. Even if accreditation with the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board is not being considered, it is important that compounding pharmacies have these two programs implemented. In the long run, it will pay off in higher quality services, error prevention, and perhaps greater efficiency of pharmacy operations.

Related Keywords: Joe Cabaleiro, RPh, BSPharm, pharmacy accreditation, Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board, PCAB, quality assurance, continuous quality improvement, standards, standard operating procedures, medication errors

Related Categories: QUALITY CONTROL, PROFESSIONAL ISSUES

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