California law, Health & Safety Code §1320, prohibits nursing homes from requiring residents to purchase drugs, or rent or purchase medical supplies or equipment, from any particular pharmacy or other source. Although the law does permit nursing homes to require a resident’s pharmacy to comply with policies and procedures reasonably necessary for the resident’s care or to comply with state or federal rules, the facility cannot impose unreasonable requirements or restrict your choice of pharmacy.

If controlled subsances are prescribed, the facility can require they be dispensed in containers, such as a pill box or counting tray, that are suitable for being periodically counted by the facility. Although the facility may prefer “bubble packing,” it cannot be required. Ask the nursing home about its policies on packaging of medications and see if your pharmacy can meet them.(/p)

If the facility imposes unreasonable requirements or restricts your choice of pharmacy, you should file a complaint with the California Department of Public Health.

Page Last Modified: October 17, 2018