Who does the Board regulate?

The Board of Pharmacy regulates the pharmacy practice of pharmacists, interns, pharmacy technicians, and exemptees (those who are involved with the wholesale or manufacturer of drugs and medical devices, but not required to hold a pharmacist license).

The Board also regulates all types of firms that distribute prescription drugs and devices in California, including community pharmacies and those located in hospitals, clinics, home and community support services facilities, and out-of-state mail order pharmacies that fill prescriptions and deliver them in California.

How does the Board resolve complaints?

A primary way the Board protects the public is through the investigation of consumer inquiries and complaints involving the pharmaceutical care patients have received. The Board advocates and enforces laws that protect the health and safety of patients and encourages the submission of complaints and inquiries from the public.

Each complaint is evaluated to determine if the complaint involves a pharmacist, pharmacy, or firm regulated by the Board, and whether the complaint involves a violation of California Pharmacy Law.

If the complaint is within the Board's jurisdiction, the complaint may be referred to an inspector who will contact you for additional information about the complaint, or a consumer services representative may resolve your complaint.

If the complaint is not within Board's jurisdiction, it may be closed with no action taken or referred to another agency. In any case, you will be advised of the Board's action on your complaint.

Many complaints are closed with a verbal or written warning that becomes part of the licensee's record. However, a complaint could result in disciplinary action being taken against the licensee. The action may range from reprimand to revocation of the license with loss of the right to practice or operate a pharmacy.

The Board does not represent the person making the complaint individually and does not seek restitution or money damages on behalf of any individual.

How do I file a complaint with the Board?

Complaints may be filed by writing to:

Board of Pharmacy
1625 N Market Blvd, N219
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 574-7900

Will I be told of the status and resolution of my complaint?

The Board will notify you in writing when the complaint is resolved unless you inform us that you would prefer not to receive written notification.

However, no information may be released if an investigation relating to the complaint is in progress.

How does the Board discipline pharmacists or pharmacies?

The Board may reprimand, cancel, suspend, or revoke the license of a pharmacist or pharmacy that is found to have violated pharmacy or drug laws.

During disciplinary proceedings, licensees may be represented by an attorney and are given an opportunity to demonstrate their compliance with the law. Once the Board has taken action against the licensee, he or she has the right to appeal the action to state courts.