In North Carolina

North Carolina state code requires facilities to store medications in a refrigerator, if required, as well as in a secure manner if the client is allowed to self-administer.

Source:

• 10A NCAC 27G .0209 MEDICATION REQUIREMENTSe) Medication Storage: (1) All medication shall be stored: (A) in a securely locked cabinet in a clean, well-lighted, ventilated room between 59º and 86º F.; (B) in a refrigerator, if required, between 36º and 46º F. If the refrigerator is used for food items, medications shall be kept in a separate, locked compartment or container; (C) separately for each client; (D) separately for external and internal use; (E) in a secure manner if approved by a physician for a client to self-medicate.

Reassuring Facilities About Storing Bleeding Disorder Medication

• “Under the NC Administrative Code, facilities are required to have refrigerators for storing client medications that require it, like [insert patient’s name]. And, if a client is approved by a physician to self-administer their medication, the facility must also ensure that the medication is stored in a secure manner to support this practice.”

• "I understand your team may have concerns about storing bleeding disorder medication—especially if you're not familiar with infusion/injection products. I want to assure you that storage is generally straightforward and doesn't require any complex equipment or procedures."

• "Storing bleeding disorder medication is actually pretty simple." - Most of these medications are shelf-stable at room temperature for at least three months, and don’t require any special handling beyond what you already do for other medications.

• "Some medications do require refrigeration or a climate-controlled space." - But they should not be frozen or stored in places that are too hot—just a standard medical refrigerator or temperature-stable room is typically sufficient.

• “I’m including the manufacturer’s package insert for [medication name] so your team can review the specific storage instructions. It outlines everything you need to know about temperature, shelf life, and safe handling.”

• "You can store the medication and supplies in your locked nursing station or medication room." - That’s standard practice in most facilities and meets the safety needs of these products.

• "As the patient progresses in treatment, your team can decide if it’s appropriate for them to store their medication in a personal locker." This is something some programs allow when the patient is stable, as part of preparing them to self-manage their care after discharge.

• "I understand that storage may feel like a barrier, but I want to remind you that secure, climate-controlled storage—including refrigeration when needed—is considered a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Providing appropriate storage helps ensure equal access to care for individuals with disabilities, like those with bleeding disorders."

Send the following to the facility:

• Medication Storage for [Patient Name]: Edit this email template to communicate with the facility about medication storage expectations.

• 10A NCAC 27G .0209 MEDICATION REQUIREMENTS: Share North Carolina’s medication storage requirements.