For how long should records of original prescriptions be kept by pharmacies?

Pharmacies are required to maintain records of original prescriptions for a minimum of three years. This timeframe aligns with the regulations set by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and is reflective of the standards for record-keeping in the pharmaceutical industry. Keeping original prescriptions for this duration ensures that pharmacies can provide adequate verification and auditing capabilities regarding the dispensing of controlled substances and prescription medications.

Maintaining records for three years allows efficient monitoring of prescription history and compliance with laws, aiding in both patient safety and pharmacy accountability. Furthermore, these records can be crucial during inspections, investigations, or in circumstances where patient care and medication management are being evaluated.

While some pharmacies might choose to keep records for longer, spanning five years or even indefinitely, these timeframes exceed the minimum requirement and are not mandated by the law. Records must be readily available during this three-year period should any regulatory authority convey requests for review or if the pharmacy needs to check past prescriptions for continuity of care.