21 ncac 46 .1804             PRESCRIPTION: RECEIVING AND DISPENSING

(a)  In order to assure that the practitioner-pharmacist-patient relationship exists and to promote the safe and secure distribution of drugs and devices from a pharmacy, prescription orders may be received for filling and refilling only by a pharmacist or a bona fide employee of the pharmacy. The pharmacist-manager of the pharmacy shall be ultimately responsible for the safe, lawful and secure receipt of prescription orders and delivery of prescription drugs. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Rule, prescription drugs also may be delivered by mail in accordance with the provisions of 21 NCAC 46 .1601(b).

(b)  In filling or refilling prescription orders, the pharmacist shall not be required to deal with parties, including managed care companies and insurance providers, outside the practitioner-pharmacist-patient relationship.

(c)  In order to promote the safe and secure distribution of devices and medical equipment from a facility holding a device and medical equipment permit, prescription orders for devices and medical equipment may be received for filling and refilling only by the person in charge of the facility holding the device and medical equipment permit or a bona fide employee of the facility. The person in charge shall be ultimately responsible for the safe, lawful and secure receipt of prescription orders and delivery of devices and medical equipment. Unless the location also holds a pharmacy permit, a facility holding a device and medical equipment permit shall not acquire, receive, store, or deliver prescription drugs.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 90-85.6; 90-85.32;

Eff. December 1, 1983;

Amended Eff. April 1, 2004; August 1, 2000; September 1, 1995; May 1, 1989; August 1, 1988;

Pursuant to G.S. 150B-21.3A, rule is necessary without substantive public interest Eff. October 3, 2017.