Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician License Practice Test

What federal act was enacted in 1990 to establish new standards governing patient counseling?

1. Controlled Substances Act

2. Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act

3. Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement Act

4. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act

The correct answer is: Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1990 was a significant piece of legislation that introduced new requirements for pharmacists, specifically regarding patient counseling. This act mandated that pharmacists engage in counseling patients when dispensing prescriptions, which was aimed at enhancing medication therapy management and ensuring patient safety. One of the key components of OBRA '90 was the requirement for states to implement Drug Utilization Review (DUR) programs to encourage appropriate use of medications. This not only included the review of prescriptions but also emphasized the importance of communicating with patients about their medications, including potential side effects, proper usage, and interactions with other drugs. By establishing these counseling standards, OBRA '90 greatly improved the quality of pharmaceutical care, making patient education a core responsibility of pharmacy practice. As a result, patients became more informed about their medications, leading to better adherence and health outcomes. In contrast, the other acts listed address different aspects of health care and pharmacy regulation. The Controlled Substances Act regulates the manufacturing and distribution of narcotics and other drugs susceptible to abuse. The Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement Act primarily focuses on enhancing Medicare benefits. The Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act establishes the authority for the FDA to oversee food, drug, and cosmetic safety but does