What must a facility obtain before installing a unit dose system?

A facility must obtain approval from the Office of Health Care Quality before installing a unit dose system because this approval ensures that the system meets all necessary regulatory standards and is capable of providing safe and effective medication delivery to patients. The Office of Health Care Quality plays a crucial role in monitoring and regulating health care facilities in Maryland, ensuring adherence to established laws and guidelines that protect patient safety and encourage best practices in medication management.

While having certification from a licensed pharmacist, licensing from state authorities, and agreement from staff members are all important aspects of overall operations and the implementation of new systems within a health care setting, the definitive requirement for installing a unit dose system specifically focuses on obtaining approval from the Office of Health Care Quality. This step verifies that the facility's plans align with health regulations and standards that govern medication administration, which is critical for ensuring patient well-being.