(records of drug formula
preparation), internal stan-
dard operating proce-
dures, continuing educa-
tion policies or references
from other providers who
use their services. You may want to enlist the help of your facility's
consulting pharmacist in formulating these questions. Once you've
selected a compounder, schedule a conversation at least quarterly to
find out how many batches have been rejected internally in recent
months, and why. And consider assigning a point person in charge of
developing — and monitoring — this relationship.
For Kathy Spencer, BSN, RN, clinical director for Horizon Eye Care
in Margate City, N.J., this communication isn't just about due dili-
gence, it makes life more convenient. "I talk with my lab's lead phar-
macist once or twice a week via email," she says. "Because we have a
relationship, if I ever need something last minute, it's easier to get."
Do they allow on-site visits? "Any good-caliber facility should be
more than happy to provide a private inspection," says John Voliva,
RPh, executive VP of the International Academy of Compounding
Pharmacists in Missouri City, Texas. "Nothing beats an eyes-on,
hands-on view of the pharmacy you've chosen to use. In the end, this
is the thing that will give you the greatest peace of mind." Ms.
Hermanson agrees. "I'd say we're all more vigilant now," she says.
"I've taken care to make sure our compounding lab cares as much
about our patients as we do, and I've been very happy with the
results."
OSM
Ms. Stopyra (dianestopyra@gmail.com) is a contributing editor.
9 6 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 7
We're all more vigilant now.
I've taken care to make sure our
compounding lab cares as much
about our patients as we do.
