What is the first step for a pharmacy to become a cancer drug repository?

To establish a cancer drug repository, notifying the pharmacy board of the pharmacy's intent is the essential initial step. This step is crucial because the pharmacy board oversees the regulation and implementation of drug repositories, ensuring they adhere to state laws and guidelines. The board typically provides the necessary requirements for setting up such a program, including compliance with safety and storage protocols, which are critical given the nature of cancer treatments and the strict regulations surrounding pharmaceuticals.

While compiling a list of acceptable drugs, partnering with hospitals, and submitting applications to various agencies may be part of the process later on, none of these actions can commence until the pharmacy has officially notified the pharmacy board. This notification sets the groundwork for the pharmacy to engage in a structured and legally compliant manner with all subsequent activities related to the repository program.