Virginia Prescription Monitoring Program
Description of Program
The prescription monitoring program collects prescription data for Schedule II-IV drugs into a central database which can then be used by limited authorized users to assist in deterring the illegitimate use of prescription drugs. The information collected in this program is maintained by the Department of Health Professions, and strict security and confidentiality measures are enforced. Only those persons authorized by law can be provided information from the database, and the list of authorized persons is very limited. Prescribers and dispensers may query the database to assist in determining treatment history and to rule out the possibility that a patient is "doctor shopping" or "scamming" in order to obtain controlled substances. A prescriber must obtain written consent from the patient before submitting an inquiry.
Who is required to report?
Pharmacies, non-resident pharmacies, permitted physicians, and physicians holding a permit to sell controlled substances are required to report all dispensing of any Schedule II, III, and IV controlled substances to the PMP.
There is a limited list of reporting exemptions such as dispensing of manufacturers’ samples. Click here for list of exemptions.(MS Word)
Every effort is being made to make the reporting as effortless and inexpensive as possible for dispensers. Provisions have been made in regulation to grant waivers in certain situations such as a substantial hardship created by a natural disaster or other emergency beyond the control of the dispenser. Waiver form. (MS Word)
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