In which state must a hospital PIC be licensed?

In Minnesota, a pharmacy-in-charge (PIC) at a hospital must be licensed as a pharmacist in the state. This requirement ensures that the individual responsible for managing the pharmacy operations, including compliance with state and federal laws, meets Minnesota's specific standards for licensure, which includes completion of the necessary educational and professional requirements.

Having a licensed PIC is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the pharmacy services provided within the hospital. The PIC is held accountable for the proper management of the pharmacy, including medication safety, adherence to regulations, and the supervision of pharmacy staff. Minnesota law emphasizes the necessity of having pharmacists who are knowledgeable about state regulations and capable of applying them in practice.

In contrast, other states, such as Wisconsin, Iowa, and North Dakota, may have different regulations concerning the licensure of the PIC, which can affect the responsibilities and oversight required for pharmacy operations in those jurisdictions. Each state has its own rules governing who is eligible to serve as a PIC and the prerequisites for that role, which can vary significantly.