62. Which of the following laws mandates that a pharmacist complete a drug utilization review?
Answer: A
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 mandates that a pharmacist complete a drug utilization review.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 (OBRA '90) requires pharmacists to conduct drug utilization reviews (DURs) to ensure the safety and efficacy of medication therapy for patients.
A) Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990
This option is correct because OBRA '90 specifically established requirements for drug utilization reviews as part of the Medicaid program. It mandates that pharmacists review a patient's medication regimen to identify potential drug interactions, contraindications, and other medication-related issues.
B) The Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938
This option is incorrect. While the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act sets the foundation for drug safety and efficacy standards, it does not specifically require pharmacists to perform drug utilization reviews. Its primary focus is on the regulation of food, drugs, and cosmetics rather than the operational practices of pharmacists.
C) Medicare Modernization Act of 2003
This option is also incorrect. The Medicare Modernization Act introduced changes to the Medicare program, including the addition of a prescription drug benefit, but it does not mandate drug utilization reviews by pharmacists. Instead, it focuses on expanding access to prescription medications for seniors.
D) Durham-Humphrey Amendment of 1951
This option is incorrect as well. The Durham-Humphrey Amendment primarily distinguished between prescription and over-the-counter medications and established the requirement for prescription labeling. It does not address the requirements for drug utilization reviews by pharmacists.
Conclusion
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 is the definitive law that requires pharmacists to complete drug utilization reviews, ensuring safe and effective medication use. The other options, while significant in their own contexts, do not impose such a mandate on pharmacists, making OBRA '90 the correct answer to this question.