BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Deval Patrick says the state board that oversees pharmacies is too heavily dominated by people who are pharmacists themselves and he might seek a change in the panel's makeup.
The state Board of Pharmacy has come under scrutiny in the aftermath of a national fungal meningitis outbreak that has claimed 36 lives and sickened hundreds of others. The outbreak has been linked to a steroid produced by Framingham-based New England Compounding Center, which is regulated by the board.
Patrick said Wednesday he has become concerned that 10-member board is largely made up of pharmacists and he'd like to see a "different blend of talent."
He told the "Ask the Governor" program on WTKK-FM that he expected to file legislation when state lawmakers return to Beacon Hill in January.
