Does the Board of Pharmacy (BOP) require pharmacies to implement a continuous quality improvement program?

The Board of Pharmacy (BOP) mandates that all pharmacies establish a continuous quality improvement (CQI) program. This requirement is rooted in the goal of enhancing medication safety and ensuring high standards of pharmacy practice. A CQI program facilitates the systematic monitoring and evaluation of pharmacy services, helping to identify areas for improvement, implement necessary changes, and ultimately reduce the likelihood of errors.

A continuous quality improvement program also allows for consistent recording and analysis of incidents, fostering a culture of safety and accountability within the pharmacy practice environment. Thus, all types of pharmacies, not limited to specific categories such as hospitals or compounding pharmacies, are required to have such programs in place. This universal requirement underscores the importance of quality assurance across the board in ensuring patient safety and effective medication management.