The “SafeRx” legislation was passed in March 2012 in the New York State budget. This legislation ensures that all chain and mail order pharmacies statewide provide comprehensive translation and interpretation services for limited English proficient New Yorkers.

The legislation also requires the Education Department to develop regulations requiring standardized patient-centered data elements. The Department is holding three hearings for public comment begins to on the development of needed regulations. Two hearings have already taken place, in Buffalo and Albany, and the third will be held next Thursday, October 25 in New York City at the Education Department’s office at 1411 Broadway, 12 Noon to 3:00 PM.

All input will be shared with the State Board of Pharmacy, the State Boards for professions which have the authority to prescribe medications, and relevant Department staff and will be carefully considered in the development of implementing regulations.

To register for the hearing, please email: pharmbd@mail.nysed.gov indicating the name of the presenter, the group represented, and the preferred location for your presentation no later than Monday, September 24, 2012. Those unable to attend can submit comments, by October 25, to: pharmbd@mail.nysed.gov.

Click here to see advocate talking points on Safe Rx.