E.__The program may not provide access to prescription drugs that are controlled substances, that are sensitive to environmental factors such as heat and cold or that are antibiotics for acute illnesses.

3.__Advisory group.__The program must include an advisory group made up of representatives of pharmacists, consumers and licensed providers of health care authorized to prescribe in the State, all of whom must be appointed by the commissioner.__The advisory group must meet at least twice per year to review the program, consider issues related to access, quality and safety and advise the commissioner on program design and operation.__ Members of the advisory group serve as volunteers and are entitled to reimbursement under Title 5, section 12004-I, subsection 47-G.

4.__Testing.__The program must include a procedure for random testing of drugs to ensure purity and safety for the patient.

5.__Rulemaking.__The department shall adopt rules to implement this section, including rules governing member enrollment.__Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.

SUMMARY

This bill establishes the Maine Save program to assist consumers by providing access to drugs through Internet connections to pharmacies and wholesale providers of prescription drugs for residents who lack comprehensive prescription drug coverage. The program provides access to brand-name drugs in original sealed packaging. The program does not provide access to drugs that are controlled substances, drugs that are sensitive to environmental factors such as heat or cold or that are antibiotics for acute illnesses. The program requires the patient to show evidence of use of a pharmacist licensed in the State to coordinate all prescriptions and prevent harmful drug interactions. The program includes an advisory group to review the program, consider issues related to access, quality and safety and advise the Commissioner of Health and Human Services regarding program design and operation. The program includes a requirement for random testing of drugs. The bill includes