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Calif., Va. give go-ahead to drug-dispensing kiosks

June 21, 2005

Pittsburgh Post Gazette: The California and Virginia pharmacy boards have cleared the way for the introduction of vending machines for prescription drugs. The two states are the first to grant waivers of rules that require a pharmacist be present in order for drugs to be dispensed. Other states also are considering allowing the machines.

Once customers have filled an initial prescription with the pharmacist, they can register to retrieve and pay for their refills at a vending machine inside the store - even when the pharmacy counter isn't open. Consumers order their refills in the usual way, either online or by phone. A pharmacist then fills the script and places packaged medicines in the machine. To pick up the order, consumers log on with a user name and password and swipe a credit or debit card.

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