Three Simple Steps to Ensure a Smooth Recertification

The Office of Pharmacy Affairs (OPA) is collaborating with the Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHC) to conduct the inaugural 340B Drug Pricing Program recertification for BPHC grantees. All covered entities are required to be recertified by the OPA to ensure that covered entities are accurately listed on the 340B database and are in compliance with various 340B Drug Pricing Program requirements, namely that the covered entity still meets the eligibility criteria to purchase outpatient drugs at discounted 340B prices. All BPHC grantees participating in the 340B Program are expected to complete the recertification process in January 2013. Below are three steps covered entities can take now to ensure a smooth recertification.

1. Look for Recertification Email: Prior to the recertification deadline, the program will send an email with preliminary information about the recertification process to the following contacts:

  • Program Manager/Designee
  • Authorizing Official/Primary Contact
  • Approving Managers (for Grantees)

Covered entities should visit the 340B Program database and ensure the accuracy of the listed contacts' information and update accordingly. The Authorizing Official (AO) will be responsible for completing the recertification process online; therefore, it is especially important that the AO's contact information is correct.

2.Verify Center Information: Covered entities are encouraged to visit the 340B Program database and verify accuracy of the entities' addresses and ensure that listed sites are still open and eligible to participate it the 340B Drug Pricing Program. If your records are incorrect, you can update them prior to the recertification process by submitting a change request form to the OPA available here.

3. View the OPA Webinar on Recertification Process: On Aug. 14, 2012, the OPA provided a webinar regarding general information about the 340B Program and what to expect during the recertification process. The session is available online here.

If you have questions about 340B recertification or the 340B Drug Pricing Program components, please contact one of the authors.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.