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Long-Term Care Pharmacy
A long-term care pharmacy is a specialized pharmacy service designed to
meet the unique medication and pharmaceutical needs of residents in long-
term care settings, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, group
homes, correctional facilities, and rehabilitation centers. These pharmacies
focus on the management, preparation, and delivery of medications
tailored to the complex and chronic health conditions common among
individuals in these facilities. Long-term care pharmacies play a critical role
in ensuring the quality of care for vulnerable populations requiring ongoing
medical and pharmaceutical support, and long-term care pharmacies are
closed to the public (closed-door pharmacies).
Key Functions & Characteristics
1. Medication Packaging
Use of specialized packaging (e.g., blister packs, unit-dose packaging) to ensure accuracy, compliance, and ease
of administration.
2. Regulatory Compliance
Adherence to state and federal regulations, including those outlined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services (CMS) and the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987.
3. Clinical Support
Provision of clinical services, typically performed by the consultant pharmacist, such as medication therapy
management (MTM), drug regimen reviews, and consultation to optimize therapeutic outcomes.
4. 24/7 Accessibility
Availability of pharmacists and delivery services to address urgent medication needs at any time.
5. Technology Integration
Utilization of electronic health records (EHRs), pharmacy management systems, and automated dispensing
systems to improve accuracy and efficiency.
6. Collaborative Care
Close collaboration with healthcare providers, including nurses and physicians, to ensure safe and effective
medication use.