32.1-42.1 - Administration and dispensing of necessary drugs and devices during a declared disaster or state of emergency. - Virginia Statutes

§ 32.1-42.1. Administration and dispensing of necessary drugs and devicesduring a declared disaster or state of emergency.

The Commissioner, pursuant to § 54.1-3408, may authorize persons who are notauthorized by law to administer or dispense drugs or devices to administer ordispense all necessary drugs or devices in accordance with protocolsestablished by the Commissioner when (i) the Governor has declared a disasteror a state of emergency or the United States Secretary of Health and HumanServices has issued a declaration of an actual or potential bioterrorismincident or other actual or potential public health emergency; (ii) it isnecessary to permit the provision of needed drugs or devices; and (iii) suchpersons have received the training necessary to safely administer or dispensethe needed drugs or devices. Such persons shall administer or dispense alldrugs or devices under the direction, control and supervision of theCommissioner. For purposes of this section, "administer," "device,""dispense," and "drug" shall have the same meaning as provided in §54.1-3401. The Commissioner shall develop protocols, in consultation with theDepartment of Health Professions, that address the required training of suchpersons and procedures for such persons to use in administering or dispensingdrugs or devices.

(2003, c. 794; 2007, cc. 699, 783.)