(a) The department may implement utilization controls through the establishment of guidelines, protocols, algorithms, or criteria for drugs, medical supplies, durable medical equipment, and enteral formulae. The department shall publish the guidelines, protocols, algorithms, or criteria in the pharmacy and medical provider manuals.

(b) The department shall issue providers written notice of changes pursuant to subdivision (a) at least 30 days prior to implementation.

(c) Changes made pursuant to this section are exempt from the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340), Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 11370), and Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), and shall not be subject to the review and approval of the Office of Administrative Law. The department shall consult with interested parties and appropriate stakeholders in implementing this section with respect to all of the following:

(1) Notifying the provider representatives of the proposed change.

(2) Scheduling at least one meeting to discuss the change.

(3) Allowing for written input regarding the change.

(4) Providing advance notice on the implementation and effective date of the change.

(Added by Stats. 2003, Ch. 230, Sec. 66. Effective August 11, 2003.)