South Carolina Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) Practice Exam

What is the maximum length of time for which a pharmacy can store patient records for audit purposes?

1. 1 year

2. 3 years

3. 5 years

4. 10 years

The correct answer is: 5 years

In South Carolina, pharmacies are required to maintain patient records for a minimum of five years from the date of the last prescription dispensed. This length of time ensures that there is adequate documentation available for reference in audits, quality assurance, and legal matters related to patient care and medication dispensing. Maintaining records for five years helps to protect both patients and pharmacists by providing a comprehensive account of medications dispensed, patient interactions, and pharmacy services offered. This timeframe aligns with best practices in pharmacy management and legal requirements, allowing for sufficient oversight while balancing the need to manage storage and resources efficiently. Healthcare providers, including pharmacies, must adhere to record retention schedules that comply with both state laws and federal regulations, reinforcing the significance of the five-year duration for auditing purposes.