Internet-Based Pharmacies:
Protecting Children from the Sale of
Controlled Substances Online
Friday, June 22, 2007
Overview | Audio
A critical Senate hearing explored children's access to controlled substances via unlicensed online pharmacies. The hearing, and related legislative proposals, reflects the current research exposing children's addiction problems and the myriad pharmaceutical sites operating online. The Internet community believes this issue is vital in their efforts to protect children online. This briefing featured Internet industry experts representing those parties that are on the frontlines of protecting children online, including Internet Service Providers, search engines, payment processors, pharmacy representatives, and other private sector groups.
The briefing detailed private sector efforts and challenges to protect children online. This involved industry experts, trade associations, and public interest advocates. The panel also detailed educational messages that can be shared by both the private and public sectors to edify parents and children about the potential dangers of abusing controlled substances.
Panelists included:
- Jonathan Band, NetCoalition [Bio]
- Adam Eisgrau, representing Visa USA
- Jim Halpert, DLA Piper [Bio]
- Marcia Wooden, DC Board of Pharmacy
Event attendees also received a one-pager overview of the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) accreditation program for online pharmacies that are certified to appropriately dispense pharmaceuticals to the public. The one-pager details the strict criteria and practice standards an online pharmacy is required to meet in order to receive VIPPS certification to operate online. Through educational initiatives, the VIPPS program also educates consumers about the perils of purchasing from unlicensed or unprofessionally operating online pharmacies.
This educational briefing is hosted by the Congressional Internet Caucus Advisory Committee (ICAC), part of a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization. The ICAC is a private sector organization comprised of public interest groups, trade associations, non-profits, and corporations.