What is the primary function of the Alaska Board of Pharmacy?

The primary function of the Alaska Board of Pharmacy is to regulate the practice of pharmacy within the state. This encompasses a broad range of responsibilities that include setting standards for pharmacy practice, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and protecting public health and safety. Regulating the practice of pharmacy ensures that pharmacists are practicing safely and effectively, maintaining professional standards, and providing quality care to patients.

By focusing on the practice of pharmacy, the Board also takes into account the education and training required for pharmacists, the licensing process to ensure that only qualified individuals are allowed to practice, and addressing any issues related to the conduct of pharmacists and pharmacy operations.

While overseeing pharmacy inspections, issuing pharmacy licenses, and monitoring drug prices are important functions related to pharmacy, they fall under the broader regulatory responsibilities that the Board holds in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the pharmacy profession in Alaska. Thus, while those tasks support the overall goal of regulation, the primary responsibility rests in the regulation of the practice itself.