Florida law has strict provisions to regulate activities that have the potential to cause customers hard, especially in healthcare-related segments. Whether you want to own a pharmacy or work as a pharmacist, it is crucial to seek proper licensing for legal compliance.
In this article, you will discover how to get a pharmacy license in Florida.
Florida Pharmacy Licensing – The Basics
Undoubtedly, pharmacies are listed among the most heavily regulated activities in Florida. The first step for prospective applicants is to decide whether they will work as a pharmacist or open a pharmacy business.
Depending on the choice, it will require different strategies to achieve the goal. Any pharmacy-related activity is subject to federal and state regulations, especially businesses that produce, distribute, or sell prescription drugs.
If an applicant is not qualified to exercise the proposed activity, a situation involving unlicensed practice may result in hefty financial and legal consequences. The best approach to guarantee a successful outcome is working with an expert licensing attorney in Florida.
How Do I Get a Pharmacy License in Florida? – In Detail
Any activity associated with the pharmaceutical industry goes through heavy scrutiny in terms of licensing and permits. As expected, establishing a new pharmacy is not easy. In addition to all legal aspects involved in a standard business formation, prospective pharmacy owners must seek licenses at the state and federal levels.
Most pharmacy licenses are obtained through the federal government, but Florida law also has its regulations. The Florida Department of Health is the agency responsible for regulating this type of business, issuing licenses through the Florida Board of Pharmacy.
If you are applying as the prospective owner of a pharmacy, the Board will inspect the company’s premises to verify whether the proposed endeavor complies with state regulations.
After obtaining approval at the state level, the next step is to satisfy the licensing requirements at the federal level.
This stage may also involve inspections. After obtaining approval from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and enrolling in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) system, the pharmacy business may start to operate.
Florida Pharmacy Regulations – Legal Compliance & Operation
Obtaining the required licenses and permits to start a pharmacy business is complex, but it is not the end of the owner’s efforts to ensure full legal compliance. Running a pharmacy and maintaining its legal status also requires continuous attention to the applicable regulations.
Failing to meet these specific requirements may result in compliance violations. In severe cases, it may lead to the suspension or revocation of the license. Several reasons may contribute to this outcome, including inadvertent mistakes, misunderstandings, and poor staff training.
Many licensees pay attention to the training and policy manuals involved in the inspection phase. However, they fail to maintain full legal compliance after this procedure is completed.
Florida licensees must continue to seek education to guarantee compliance with all relevant agencies at the state and federal levels, including the Board of Pharmacy, DEA, HIPAA, and CMS.
While working yourself through the process may seem like a cost-effective option at first glance, the risk of non-compliance and license refusals might be exponentially more expensive.
Do You Want to Obtain a Pharmacy License in Florida? – Immediately Seek Expert Legal Guidance
A well-versed attorney in Florida licensing laws, Attorney Romy B. Jurado willingly wants to help you succeed. Contact us today by calling (305) 921-0976 or emailing [email protected] to schedule a consultation.
