What is required when faxing a C-II prescription from a long-term care (LTC) facility?

When faxing a controlled substance prescription, such as a C-II prescription from a long-term care facility, specific regulations must be followed to ensure compliance with federal and state laws. In this context, the correct answer highlights the requirement that the original prescription must be delivered to the pharmacy within a specified time frame, which is seven days.

This requirement is in place to maintain proper documentation and accountability for controlled substances. Although the faxed prescription serves as an immediate authorization for the pharmacy to dispense the medication, the physical original prescription serves as the primary, legally binding document. The seven-day window allows the facility enough time to send the original while also ensuring the pharmacy has the necessary records for its files and potential audits.

In long-term care settings, this provision is particularly relevant as it helps ensure that residents receive their medications promptly while maintaining compliance with regulations meant to secure the handling of controlled substances.