What factors does the BOP consider when licensing wholesale distributors?

The Board of Pharmacy (BOP) takes several critical factors into account when licensing wholesale distributors, and one of the primary considerations is the distributor’s history pertaining to any felony convictions and public health safety concerns. This focus is essential because the wholesale distribution of pharmaceuticals directly impacts public health. A distributor with previous felony convictions may raise significant concerns regarding their reliability and ethical practices in handling medications, which can ultimately affect patient safety.

By assessing felony records, the BOP aims to ensure that wholesalers are trustworthy and adhere to regulations meant to protect consumer health. Concerns related to public health safety include the distributor’s capabilities in safely handling and distributing pharmaceuticals, ensuring proper storage conditions, and following appropriate protocols to mitigate contamination or other risks. Thus, evaluating a distributor's past legal issues alongside their commitment to health safety is paramount for the BOP’s licensing process, reflecting its commitment to safeguarding public health.

While previous sales volume, the size of the warehouse, and current market competition might influence certain business dynamics, they do not directly relate to the critical purpose of regulating wholesalers for the protection of public health. Hence, the emphasis on felony convictions and public health safety makes the latter choice the most relevant in the context of BOP licensing criteria.