How many hours a day must pharmacy services be available at long-term care facilities?

Pharmacy services at long-term care facilities must be available 24 hours a day to ensure that patients receive timely access to their medications and pharmaceutical care. This continuous availability is crucial in a long-term care setting because residents often have complex health needs and may require medications at any time of the day or night.

In such facilities, it is essential for pharmacists to be available to consult on medication management, address emergencies, and provide ongoing support for the safe and effective use of medications. This includes responding to residents’ needs for medication changes, managing drug interactions, and ensuring the proper administration of therapies.

When pharmacy services are not available 24/7, it can lead to delays in medication administration, which can negatively impact patient care and health outcomes. Thus, the requirement for round-the-clock pharmacy services underscores the commitment to maintaining high standards of care in long-term care settings.