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Elizabeth M. Whitehorn, Director

Provider Notice issued 03/14/08

Important Reminder - Tamper-Resistant Prescription Pads

To​ ​All Enrolled Providers
​Date: ​March 14, 2008
​Re: Important Reminder - Tamper-Resistant Prescription Pads​

This is an important reminder that a recent change in federal law, included in section 7002(b) of the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans’ Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act of 2007, requires that all non-electronic Medicaid prescriptions be written on tamper-resistant prescription pads effective April 1, 2008. 

The department issued a question and answer document, and also issued notices dated September 5, 2007 and October 1, 2007, that provide guidance on this new requirement.   These documents include important information that will help providers comply with this requirement.  These documents can be found on the department’s Web site at:

http://www.illinois.gov/hfs/MedicalProviders/Pharmacy/Pages/TamperResistantRxPads.aspx

It is important to note that the requirement does not apply to electronic prescriptions.  An electronic prescription is one that is transmitted from the prescriber to the pharmacy via telephone, telefacsimile, electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) mechanism, or other means of electronic transmission.  The Department strongly encourages providers to use an electronic method to transmit prescriptions to pharmacies.

Questions regarding this notice may be directed to the Bureau of Pharmacy Services at 1-877-782-5565, Option 7.

Theresa A. Eagleson, Administrator

Division of Medical Programs