Full Tamper-Proof Prescription Pad Requirements Go Into Effect
Medicaid outpatient, fee-for-service prescriptions have to be written on tamper-proof prescription pads that meet three requirements starting Oct. 1, 2008.
Beginning April 1, 2008, tamper-proof prescriptions pads had to prevent one of three problems—erasure or modification of information, unauthorized copying, or counterfeiting, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare (DPW). They must now prevent all three.
DPW has developed a list of features that meet these requirements.
To prevent erasure or modification, a pad can:
- Have a protected background
- Contain solvents that prevent washing of the prescription
- Contain a word or symbol that disappears if rubbed or scratched too quickly
To prevent unauthorized copying, a pad can have:
- A “void” pattern that appears when copied
- A watermark that can only be read at a certain angle
- A microline that can only be read with a magnifier and doesn’t appear on copies
To prevent counterfeiting, a pad can have:
- Warning bands that contain security features
- Ink that changes color when exposed to heat
- A patch that changes appearance when touched, rubbed, or breathed on
For more information, read
DPW’s most recent bulletin or contact Don McCoy at (800) 228-7823, ext. 2649.
Where to order
DPW has compiled a list of approved
tamper-proof prescription pad suppliers.
The Pennsylvania Medical Society endorses
Solion for medical office products, including prescription pads. State Society members receive a 20 percent discount.
Last Updated: 10/1/2008