PCAB strengthens accreditation process

Beginning in September, the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) will conduct unannounced surveys of compounding pharmacies seeking to renew accreditation from the group. The move is intended to further distinguish accredited compounding pharmacies from unaccredited ones.

“Participation in this unannounced survey process is another indication of an accredited pharmacy’s commitment to the adherence to quality standards,” said Joe Cabaleiro, PCAB’s executive director. “This sets accredited pharmacies apart from others in their communities and gives the public another compelling reason to select a PCAB-accredited pharmacy.”

Some owners of accredited compounding pharmacies welcomed the change. “We are excited to be one of the first PCAB pharmacies to receive the new unannounced survey because it further demonstrates PCAB’s commitment to quality and reflects our philosophy to approach every day as an inspection day,” said Eric Everett, owner of O’Brien Pharmacy in Mission, Kansas.

“We welcome the unannounced surveys,” added Charles Leiter, president and CEO of Leiter’s Compounding Pharmacy in San Jose, Calif. “This new process helps level the playing field for all of us. Now if a hospital, patient, or doctor needs a compounded preparation and they select a PCAB-accredited pharmacy, they can feel comfortable with their decision.”