Resources
The Dispensing Startup Checklist
Ten steps from “we're considering it” to your first dispense — print it, share it with your practice manager, and check them off.
Confirm dispensing is allowed in your state
Rules differ for physicians, NPs, and PAs, and a few states restrict in-office dispensing outright. Start with our state-by-state regulations guide, then verify with your state medical or pharmacy board.
Complete any required state registration or license
Many states require a dispensing registration, permit, or license before your first dispense — some are free notifications, others are formal applications. Your state page lists what applies, and PharmaLink can walk you through the process.
Choose your program model
Decide how patients will pay: cash and carry, workers’ comp billing, insurance adjudication, home delivery, or a mix. This shapes your formulary and pricing.
Decide whether you’ll dispense controlled substances
Controlled substances add DEA considerations, separate state licenses in some states, quantity limits, and PDMP reporting obligations. Many practices launch with non-controlled medications first. See PDMP reporting requirements.
Submit your PharmaLink application
The application and compliance documents are completed and e-signed online. Most practices are set up and dispensing in as little as 3 business days once paperwork is complete. Opening a brand-new practice? Contact us 2–3 months before opening so licensing is done by day one.
Prepare your space and equipment
You need surprisingly little: a secure storage area that meets storage requirements, an internet-connected computer, and the label printer and barcode scanner included with your program.
Build your opening formulary
Start from what you already prescribe most. PharmaLink’s team helps you select an opening formulary from more than 2,000 prepackaged medications, sized so nothing sits on the shelf.
Set up users, roles, and training
Assign per-user permissions (dispenser, reports, inventory, billing) and decide whether to require positive ID verification for dispensing. Software training is free — at launch and ongoing. See security & compliance.
Receive your first order and go live
Your first order arrives in 48–72 hours. Staff scan the shipment into inventory, labels print from the first dispense, and PDMP reporting runs automatically where required.
Set your compliance rhythm
Put recurring dates on the calendar: periodic physical counts with reconciliation, expired-medication checks (the system can flag these automatically), license renewals, and a quick monthly review of your dispense log and label content.
This checklist is general guidance, not legal advice — always confirm requirements with your state medical or pharmacy board. PharmaLink walks new practices through every step.