Garden State Times

The New Jersey Senate has approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Holly Schepisi (R-39) to allow oncology practitioners to refer patients to in-house pharmacies. This move comes in response to a new legal interpretation by the New Jersey Board of Pharmacy that would have ended this practice.

"There is a vital connection between oncology practitioners and in-house pharmacies that is essential for ensuring patients receive seamless and consistent care," said Sen. Schepisi. "When the Board of Pharmacy changed its interpretation of existing law, it jeopardized the continuity of care that many cancer patients have relied on for years. This legislation is necessary to create a clear exemption from the so-called ‘Codey Law,’ allowing oncologists to continue referring patients to in-house pharmacies."

The "Codey Law" generally prohibits health care practitioners from referring patients to any health care service in which they have a financial interest, including in-house pharmacies. Previously, the Board of Pharmacy granted specialty permits for certain in-house pharmacies despite this law. However, the board recently reversed its stance, now prohibiting all health care practitioners from integrating such services.

Senator Schepisi's bill, S-3242/A-4447, seeks to amend the Codey Law by establishing an exemption specifically for health care practitioners operating in-house pharmacies within oncology practices. The bill includes strict criteria aimed at preventing conflicts of interest while maintaining sensible health care practices beneficial to cancer patients.

The full text of S-3242/A-4447 can be accessed online.

For further information or to speak with Sen. Schepisi, contact Chris Sivel, SRO Deputy Communications Director at [email protected].