Receiving, Reviewing, Filing, and Forgery in Prescriptions

Q: What are the four main methods of receiving prescriptions?

A: Walk-in, Fax, Phone-in, Internet/e-scripts.

Q: Which method of receiving prescriptions is the most common?

A: Walk-in prescriptions.

Q: Who usually has access to pharmacy fax numbers?

A: Prescribers only.

Q: Can pharmacy technicians accept new prescriptions over the phone?

A: No, except for refills requested by patients (varies by state).

Q: Why are e-scripts becoming more common?

A: To reduce errors from handwritten, faxed, or verbal prescriptions.

Q: What are the three main steps in reviewing prescriptions?

A: Accuracy, Clarity, Completeness.

Q: What patient information must be verified for accuracy?

A: At least two identifiers (e.g., DOB, address, middle initial).

Q: What should be checked for accuracy in the prescription itself?

A: Medication name, dosage form, strength, and quantity.

Q: What should be done if a prescription is unclear or illegible?

A: Contact the prescriber for clarification.

Q: What makes a prescription complete?

A: Prescriber’s signature, clear instructions, refill info, DAW/generic substitution notes.

Q: How must Schedule II prescriptions be filed?

A: Separately from all other records, at the DEA-registered location.

Q: How can Schedule III–V prescriptions be filed?

A: Either separately or with non-controlled prescriptions, but marked with a red “C” in the lower right corner.

Q: How are legend (non-controlled) prescriptions filed?

A: In a separate file.

Q: For how long must prescription records be kept by federal law?

A: Minimum of 2 years.

Q: What are signs of prescription forgery?

A: Mismatched handwriting, incorrect abbreviations, misspellings, different ink colors, copied prescriptions, unusually large quantities/dosages.

Q: How can prescription forgery be prevented?

A: Know local providers/signatures, check prescription date, alert pharmacist, report confirmed forgeries.