When can prescriptions be transferred between pharmacies?

• A. Whenever a patient requests it
• B. Only when the medication is controlled
• C. When allowed by state law and the patient provides consent
• D. Only for prescriptions less than a month old

Answer: (C)

Prescriptions can be transferred between pharmacies when allowed by state law and with the patient’s consent. This is important because regulations governing prescription transfers can vary significantly between different states. For a transfer to occur, it is essential to ensure compliance with both federal and state laws, including the necessity of obtaining the patient's agreement.

In addition, the transfer process must also align with the specific guidelines laid out by the pharmacy, such as the types of medications being transferred and the timing from when the prescription was originally issued. Some states have restrictions on transferring controlled substances, which is another reason why understanding local laws is crucial.

The other answer choices do not accurately reflect the legal framework surrounding prescription transfers. While a patient’s request can initiate the process, it does not alone justify a transfer; state law and consent are essential. Transferring only controlled medications or limiting transfers to prescriptions less than a month old are also not universally applicable rules and can lead to misunderstandings about pharmacy operations.