At Northwest Compounders, our mission has always been to provide the highest quality compounded medications with dedication to patient safety. To further demonstrate this commitment and our proactive approach to regulatory compliance, we recently completed a comprehensive, voluntary inspection with Gates Healthcare Associates. This review of our operations reflects our belief that continuous improvement and independent oversight are paramount in delivering the exceptional care our patients deserve. We are proud to share this significant milestone as a testament to our transparent practices and commitment to exceeding industry standards.
As a 503A compounding pharmacy, we navigate an intricate and often multifaceted regulatory landscape. The complexity becomes even more challenging for pharmacies like ours that serve patients across multiple states. Each state maintains its own Board of Pharmacy, and with that comes a unique set of requirements for inspections, varying policies and procedures, and distinct documentation mandates. Navigating this multifaceted regulatory environment demands attention to detail and a proactive strategy to ensure compliance, not just in Oregon, but wherever our patients reside. It’s precisely this challenge that drives us to pursue third-party accreditations that go above minimum standards.Â
In pursuit of third-party validation, compounding pharmacies have several reputable options to consider. Gates Healthcare Associates stands out as a highly respected consulting firm, known for its team of seasoned pharmacists and regulatory experts who conduct in-depth, hands-on facility and procedural reviews. Their approach goes beyond mere checklists, providing invaluable insights for operational excellence.Â
Another esteemed option is PCAB (Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board), a service of Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). PCAB offers a specific accreditation program that sets stringent national standards for both sterile and non-sterile compounding, indicating a commitment to quality and safety within the industry. Additionally, the NABP’s (National Association of Boards of Pharmacy) Verified Pharmacy Program (VPP) offers verification for pharmacies that meet rigorous licensure and regulatory standards, covering a broader scope of pharmacy practice, including aspects of compounding. Each program offers a unique pathway to demonstrate a pharmacy’s dedication to best practices.
Our dedication to patient safety and quality is further evidenced by our proactive engagement with leading third-party validation programs. In addition to our recent successful inspection with Gates Healthcare Associates, Northwest Compounders is also proud to hold accreditation with PCAB. This means we have voluntarily undergone rigorous reviews by two of the most respected independent oversight bodies in compounding pharmacy. The recent Gates inspection further reinforced our commitment, with their report highlighting, “Overall the pharmacy is at a very high level of compliance with USP 795, USP 797 and USP 800 requirements.” This dual accreditation from both PCAB and Gates Healthcare reinforces our commitment to excellence, assuring patients and prescribers of our strict compliance with the highest standards in sterile, non-sterile, and hazardous drug compounding. We are proud to lead the way in patient safety and quality, offering confidence in every medication we prepare.Â
For healthcare providers, patients, and partners interested in learning more about our accreditations, compounding capabilities, or multi-state licensure, please contact us at (503)352-3811 or email us at info@northwestcompounders.com .Â
