What is included in the formulation of a DEA number?

A DEA number, which is assigned to health care providers authorized to prescribe controlled substances, consists of a unique combination of letters and numbers designed to allow for systematic identification and validation. The mathematical validation tool is an essential feature of a DEA number, as it includes a specific algorithm to confirm that the number is valid and not a result of a typographical error.

This validation tool involves a formula that uses the digits of the DEA number to calculate a check digit. The last digit of the DEA number is used as the check digit and is derived from a weighted calculation of the preceding digits. This feature helps ensure that the DEA number is legitimate and reduces the risk of fraud or misuse in prescribing practices.

In contrast, other components listed such as a patient's age, prescriber's birthdate, or a prescription ID do not contribute to the formation of a DEA number. These elements are not part of the standard DEA number structure and serve different purposes in health care practices or record-keeping for prescriptions. The key focus for a DEA number is its uniqueness and the mathematical validation tool that safeguards against errors.