Is a telephone counseling session acceptable for OBRA?

A telephone counseling session is acceptable for OBRA (Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) because the law mandates that pharmacists provide patient counseling and drug utilization review to ensure safe and effective use of medications. OBRA requires that patients be informed about their medications, and counseling can be done through various means, including in-person and over the phone.

Telephone counseling can be particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty visiting the pharmacy in person, ensuring they still receive important information regarding their medications such as dosage, side effects, and interactions. This method aligns with the goal of enhancing patient understanding and adherence to medication therapy, thus allowing pharmacists to fulfill their obligation to provide counseling in a convenient and accessible manner.