Prescription Drug Database Set To Open In Sept.
MIAMI (CBSMiami.com) – The much ballyhooed Florida prescription-drug database is set to being operating in September and October, according to the News Service of Florida.
Once the database is up and running, doctors and pharmacies that dispense controlled substances, like hydrocodone or Xanax, will have to start reporting information to the state on September 1.
While the reporting period will start on September 1, doctors and pharmacists can't use the system until October 17.
Legislators originally approved the database in 2009 as Florida's prescription drug epidemic was beginning to be publicized.
"I think it sends a message we are following you we know who you are and if you are complying," said Attorney General Pam Bondi.
The database was opposed by Governor Rick Scott on privacy grounds, but he and some current legislators backed off the opposition in the spring.
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