The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has wrapped up its rulemaking process for implementing the WA Secure Drug Take-Back Act of 2018 (RCW 69.48; HB 1047 in 2018). WAC 246-480 took effect on August 1, 2019. The underlying statute is quite detailed; therefore, the rule is fairly simple. It primarily clarifies issues and processes related to DOH’s oversight and administration of the pharmaceutical industry provided program.
Mid-2020 launch
DOH is now reviewing a proposed program plan submitted by MED-Project, LLC on behalf of participating drug manufacturers. DOH has until the end of October to accept or reject the proposal as meeting the requirements of the law and the rule. If the proposal is rejected, MED-Project has 90 days to submit a revised proposal. Depending on the length of the plan review process, DOH projects that the statewide drug take-back program will be launched in the summer or fall of 2020.
Integrating a statewide system
MED-Project, LLC is already operating secure drug take-back programs in seven counties in our state under local ordinances. To see program services, go to their website and look under Washington State. These local ordinances remain in effect until one year after an approved statewide drug take-back program begins operations. The local programs will then be integrated into the statewide program, creating a uniform system for all state residents.
DOH’s Safe Medication Return Program website has more information, including links to MED-Project’s program proposal and FAQs for the public.