Interstate EMS medication restocking after hospital closure: A pharmacy-led regulatory response

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ID: 331959
2026
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Ranked #199 of 228 articles by views in American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists

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Abstract
PURPOSE: To describe a multi-state regulatory and operational response that preserved EMS controlled substance access following the closure of a rural community hospital. SUMMARY: Hospital closures can disrupt established emergency medical services (EMS) medical control relationships and medication restocking pathways, including access to controlled substances. Limited literature describes the role of hospital pharmacy departments in maintaining EMS medication continuity during system-level disruptions. Following the closure of Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Massachusetts, local EMS agencies experienced increased transport times and operational strain related to medication restocking requirements. To mitigate service disruption, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Drug Control Program and Office of Emergency Medical Services issued a time-limited waiver permitting interstate restocking at designated New Hampshire hospitals. Hospital pharmacy leadership collaborated with EMS agencies and regulators to establish controlled substance custody safeguards, documentation workflows, and reconciliation procedures consistent with state and federal requirements. This case highlights structural differences between Massachusetts and New Hampshire EMS medication governance models and demonstrates the role of hospital pharmacy in aligning cross-jurisdictional compliance frameworks. CONCLUSION: Hospital pharmacists may serve as critical regulatory integrators during regional healthcare disruptions. Formal agreements, clearly defined custody models, and interagency coordination are essential to maintaining EMS controlled substance access while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Reference Key
openalex_W7221121295 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Ryan R Morgan, Kevin Blinn, David J Hargrave
Journal American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/ajhp/zxag334
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/ajhp/zxag334
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