Dispensing Medication Sample

ARTICLE #14

The Pros and Cons of Dispensing Medication Samples
From Coverys Risk Management
(Ann Carter, HRM, CPHRM) Many physicians offer their patients sample drugs, for a variety of practical reasons. When it comes to patients who might not be able to afford the full cost of a medication, getting started with samples can be the difference between a patient getting better and continuing to suffer from what ails them. And all patients, regardless of financial means, are more likely to begin and continue treatment when given an initial dose at no cost.
But dispensing medication samples is not risk-free for the physician practices that choose to do so.
Case in Point
Imagine yourself in the following situation:
You’re reviewing your already-overbooked

What could have been done differently to prevent this from happening, while still endeavoring to provide outstanding service to this family?
Additional Risks of Dispensing Medication Samples
Some of the risk involved with giving medication samples stems from the fact that the pharmacist is removed from the process, which eliminates a critical safety check with respect to allergies and contraindications with other conditions or medications the patient is currently taking. Pharmacists also tell patients how and when to take medications, and inform them about possible side effects.
Other risks include expired sample medications and the lack of a secure location for storage. Even in a physician practice, medication labeling, record keeping, and storage must be handled in the same manner as in a pharmacy. If medications are not routinely checked, an expired medication could be given to a patient and may cause a negative reaction or may not be effective. Also, sample medications should be stored in a secure location in plain view of office staff members. Some practices simply do not have the space to provide adequate security for medication samples.
Safety Practices for Dispensing

And, to further reduce the risk of patient injury:
Do not store non-medications, such as Hemoccult® Developer, in the sample medication room.
Do not store topical or suppository formulations on the same shelf as oral medications.
Do not store medications with look-alike or sound-alike names or similar packaging near each other.
Do not store medications alphabetically.
Designate a staff member to routinely check the expiration dates on medication samples and dispose of expired medications.

So, while there are pros and cons of dispensing medication samples in your practice, the risks can be easily overcome and the benefits are many. Sample medications can help your patients save time and money, and your patients are more likely to follow the course of treatment you prescribe if they start the treatment with a sample. By taking the precautions outlined above, you can ensure that the use of sample medications is a safe way for patients to get the medications they need.

This article is intended to provide general risk management guidelines and should not be construed as legal or medical