Font Size:

Database Requirements

System Requirements

In order to access the controlled substances database you must have the following:

  • Internet access
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader 
  • A computer from which you can print
  • A working e-mail address

Access

Under Alabama law only the following persons or entities are allowed access to the controlled substances database. Access is controlled by ADPH through careful identity and credential check.

  • Authorized representatives of the certifying boards, provided, however, that access shall be limited to information concerning the licensees of the certifying board, however, authorized representatives from the Board of Medical Examiners may access the database to inquire about certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNPs), or certified nurse midwives (CNMs) that hold a Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Registration Certificate (QACSC).
  • A licensed practitioner for information concerning himself or herself, registrants who possess a Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Registration Certificate over whom the practitioner exercises physician supervision or with whom they have a joint practice agreement, a certified registered nurse practitioner and a certified nurse midwife with a Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Registration Certificate over whom the practitioner exercises professional oversight and direction pursuant to an approved collaborative practice agreement, a current patient of the practitioner, and individuals seeking treatment from the practitioner.
  • A licensed physician approved by the department who has authority to prescribe, dispense, or administer controlled substances may designate up to two employees who may access the database on the physician's behalf.
  • A licensed certified registered nurse practitioner or a licensed certified nurse midwife approved by the department who is authorized to prescribe, administer, or dispense pursuant to a Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Registration Certificate; provided, however, that such access shall be limited to information concerning a current or prospective patient of the certified registered nurse practitioner or certified nurse midwife.
  • A licensed assistant to physician approved by the department who is authorized to prescribe, administer, or dispense pursuant to a Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Registration Certificate; provided, however, that such access shall be limited to information concerning a current patient of the assistant to the physician or an individual seeking treatment from the assistant to physician.
  • A licensed pharmacist approved by the department, provided, however, that such access is limited to information related to the patient or prescribing practitioner designated on a controlled substance prescription that a pharmacists has been asked to fill.
  • State and local law enforcement authorities as authorized under Section 20-2-91, and federal law enforcement authorities authorized to access prescription information upon application to the department accompanied by a declaration that probable cause exists for the use of the requested information.

Penalty For Misuse of the Data System

Any person who intentionally makes an unauthorized disclosure of information contained in the controlled substances prescription database shall be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. Any person or entity who intentionally obtains unauthorized access to or who alters or destroys information contained in the controlled substances database shall be guilty of a Class C felony. (Act 2004-443, p. 781, § 7.)

The reports generated from the controlled substances database contain confidential information, including patient identifiers, and are not public records. The information should not be provided to any other persons or entity.

If you are having problems accessing or using the database, call the Technical Support Desk at 855-925-4767.





Page last updated: May 13, 2021