Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications Tool Kit ... - Home

Policy
System Name: ATC/Vancom of Nevada
Contact: Trudi Hrisoulas
(702) 636-0623 ext. 2143
trhrisoulas@atclv.com
Summary: The Rx/OTC medication policy is included as a section of the larger
drug and alcohol testing policy. The policy requires all safety-sensitive
employees to notify the agency of all Rx and OTC medications. The
policy describes the required notification procedure including the use of
the prescription/non-prescription notification form. The employer
makes the determination regarding the employee’s ability to work based
on the physician’s statement. If a determination cannot be made, the
opinion of the agency’s MRO is sought and his/her determination is
considered final. Employees are not allowed to come on duty while
taking the medication until they have been authorized to do so. The
policy also defines the absenteeism policy and alludes to no-show/missout
unauthorized absence, implying that excessive absence due to
Rx/OTC medication use would be treated accordingly.
Advantages: The policy is concise and clearly worded. The employee’s responsibility
and employer authority are clearly defined. Procedures are well defined.
The notification reporting process is defined and includes a timeline,
contact persons, and alternates. A signed notification form is required
for both Rx and OTC medications.
Disadvantages: The policy does not address confidentiality. It does not provide
consequences for failure to report use, only the consequences for
falsification of records. Uses an MRO in a non-MRO role. Rx/OTC
reviews should be made by the company physician who might also serve
in the role of the MRO for drug and alcohol test reviews (see OCTA
policy discussion).