After dispensing an emergency refill of a non-controlled prescription, how long does the pharmacy have to contact the prescriber?

The correct time frame for contacting the prescriber after dispensing an emergency refill of a non-controlled prescription is 14 days. This regulation is in place to ensure that the pharmacy has verified the necessity of continuing therapy after an emergency situation, which typically occurs when the patient cannot obtain a prescription in a timely manner.

The 14-day window allows the pharmacy to communicate with the prescriber to confirm that the ongoing treatment is appropriate and to arrange for a new prescription. This helps maintain the continuity of care and ensures that the medication is dispensed appropriately based on the prescriber’s assessment.

Understanding this time frame is crucial for pharmacies to comply with legal requirements while also balancing patient needs, thereby ensuring safe and effective medication management.