Using and Reporting to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP)

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For additional resources to support pharmacy controlled substance prescription compliance click HERE. 

FULL ARTICLE: 

Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs), also known as Prescription Monitoring Programs (PMPs), are state-operated electronic databases that track dispensing of controlled substances. These systems are critical tools for improving patient safety, supporting clinical decision-making, and identifying potential misuse, abuse, or diversion. 

Because PDMP requirements vary by state, pharmacies and pharmacists must always follow applicable state-specific laws and regulations in addition to federal expectations. 

What is a PDMP? 

A PDMP is a secure, state-run database that collects information on dispensed controlled substance prescriptions (Schedules II–V). The data is used by pharmacists, prescribers, and regulators to: 

• Identify potential prescription drug misuse or diversion  
• Detect overlapping therapies or dangerous drug combinations  
• Support safe and appropriate prescribing and dispensing  
• Improve overall patient care and outcomes  

Reporting Requirements 

Pharmacies are typically required to report dispensing data for all Schedule II–V controlled substances to the state PDMP. Key expectations include: 

• Submitting accurate and complete dispensing data  
• Reporting within the timeframe required by the state (often daily or in real-time)  
• Ensuring all required data fields are populated correctly  

If errors or omissions occur: 

• Corrections must be made promptly  
• Updated data must be resubmitted according to state requirements  

Accurate reporting is essential to maintain the integrity and usefulness of PDMP data. 

Registration and Access 

• All licensed pharmacists must register with their state’s PDMP as required by the state board of pharmacy  
• Pharmacists may designate authorized delegates (such as technicians or interns, where permitted) to access the PDMP on their behalf  

Delegates must operate under pharmacist supervision and within the scope allowed by state law. 

Using the PDMP in Practice 

The PDMP should be used as a routine clinical and compliance tool when evaluating controlled substance prescriptions. Pharmacists should review PDMP data to assess: 

• Use of multiple prescribers or pharmacies (“doctor/pharmacy shopping”)  
• Early refill patterns  
• Prescriptions originating from distant geographic locations  
• Concurrent use of multiple controlled substances (e.g., opioids and benzodiazepines)  
• Other potential red flags or concerning trends  

Required PDMP Checks Prior to Dispensing 

Before dispensing any controlled substance prescription: 

• The pharmacist (or authorized delegate, if permitted) should review the patient’s PDMP profile  
• This review should occur every time, unless state law provides specific exceptions  

After review: 

• Document that the PDMP was accessed and evaluated  
• Identify and assess any red flags  

If concerns are identified: 

• They must be resolved prior to dispensing  
• All steps taken to investigate and resolve concerns must be clearly documented  

Best Practices for Compliance and Patient Safety 

• Incorporate PDMP checks into standard workflow for all controlled substance prescriptions  
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of dispensing data  
• Regularly audit submissions for completeness and accuracy  
• Train all staff on proper PDMP use and documentation expectations  
• Stay current with state-specific PDMP requirements and updates  

Effective use of the PDMP is a key component of a strong controlled substance compliance program and plays a vital role in preventing diversion while supporting appropriate patient care. 

Disclaimer: These tools and templates are intended for general informational purposes and are provided by Montana Family Pharmacies as a service to pharmacies. While we try to keep the information timely and accurate, we make no guarantees. These tools and templates are not a substitute for legal, regulatory, or professional advice. 

Policies and procedure, templates, checklists, and other tools should be customized to fit the specific needs and regulatory requirements of your pharmacy. 

Montana Family Pharmacies disclaims any liability for any damages, losses, or other consequences arising from the use or reliance on the tools or policy templates.