NY Pharmacy Denied Medicaid Enrollment and Investigated

In August, the New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG) denied enrollment to a pharmacy after an on-site inspection revealed several deficiencies.  An apparent egregious case of  non-compliance serves as a vivid reminder of the importance of complying at all times not only with professional standards but also with the NYS Medicaid rules and regulations. 

According to OMIG, the pharmacy was denied enrollment because an on-site visit revealed 38 expired drugs, including one that expired in 2006. Other noted deficiencies included a “dirty” pharmacy refrigerator that lacked an inside thermometer and was also used to store food items.

OMIG also noted that the pharmacy’s sink was clogged and had no running hot water. Furthermore, during its inspection the agency found a “dusty and cluttered” counter and also observed that “the store was in such disarray that wheelchair access to its aisles would not be possible.”

Not only did OMIG deny Medicaid enrollment to this pharmacy provider but it also referred the provider to the Board of Pharmacy for further investigation.

If you have a question about OMIG, Medicaid or Medicare Program participation or require assistance with provider enrollment or revalidation, please contact our office.