Reasons Why A Pharmacist Might Refuse To Fill Your Prescription
Have you ever gone to the pharmacy with a prescription and discovered that the pharmacist is unable to fill it? The likelihood of this occurring is low. But if such a circumstance arises, it usually happens for a valid reason, such as safeguarding you from serious health risks.
The good news is that there are steps you may take to avoid problems altogether and receive your medication without experiencing a major wait. As a Los Angeles pharmacy, we share the reasons why your pharmacy might not have your prescription ready.
The Prescription Is Lacking Information
Prescriptions can be delivered in person, called in via phone or fax, or emailed electronically. The pharmacist must have the following information in order to fill your prescription (be aware that state-specific rules may apply).
- Your full name and address
- Name and dosage information for the drug
- Dosage kind (such as tablet or capsule)
- Medication quantity
- Guidelines for use
- Refill details
- Issue Date
- Details regarding the prescriber
- Verbal approval or sign from your healthcare provider
The pharmacist will also require more information if your prescription is for a controlled substance (a drug that could lead to addiction). If something is missing the pharmacist must speak with the office of your healthcare provider, before filling the prescription for you.
The Medication Should Be Ordered
Most people anticipate that a pharmacy will have their medication on hand. However, pharmacies don’t always maintain all prescriptions on hand, particularly rare or expensive medications. Another reason why your pharmacy might not have something in stock is a medicine shortage or backorder. In any case, filling your prescription or requesting an alternative may require the pharmacy personnel to place an order for your medication.
It Seems Like The Prescription Has Been Changed Or Faked
Pharmacists may question prescriptions that appear to be damaged or altered in some way in order to ensure that you have a legal prescription. Was it repaired using tape? Is information erasable? Are there any security components missing? Additionally, your pharmacist might refuse to fill your prescription if any information on it—such as the date, strength, or quantity—appears to have been changed.
The Prescription Is Difficult To Read
Prescriptions from some medical professionals can be challenging to understand. The pharmacist is required to call the office of your healthcare provider to confirm the information on the prescription if they are unable to read it.
Make sure to provide the pharmacist with your most recent contact information if you are having problems understanding your hard copy prescription. Ask for a call from your pharmacist if there are any issues. By doing this, the staff will be able to contact you so that you won’t have to visit the pharmacy when your prescription isn’t ready.