680-X-2-.32 Prescriptions By Electronic Means.

(1) The following requirements shall apply to any prescription, as that term is defined in Code of Ala. 1975, §34-23-1(21) (25), for non-controlled legend drugs transmitted by electronic means.

(a) The prescription must include the patient's name and address, the drug prescribed, strength per dosage unit, directions for use, and the name of the prescriber or authorized agent. To the extent not included above, the prescription must comply with any applicable provisions of the Alabama Pharmacy Practice Act or Board Rule now existing or later amended or changed.

(b) Prescriptions may be transmitted directly to the pharmacy or transmitted over an e-prescription network approved by the Board. All such transmissions must ensure appropriate security and authenticity to include the following:

1. An electronic signature process enabling the pharmacy to ensure the identity of the prescriber;

2. Date and time stamp;

3. Transmitting system identifier;

4. Prescriber internal sender identification; and

5. Pharmacy internal receiver identification.

(c) Any pharmacy receiving a prescription shall comply with all requirements for recordkeeping and prescription information mandated by the provisions of the Alabama Pharmacy Practice Act or Board Rule now existing or later amended.

(d) Prescriptions for controlled substances, whether scheduled pursuant to state or federal law shall not be authorized until the Drug Enforcement Agency has adopted applicable regulations, at which time all prescriptions for controlled substances must comply with the provisions of any such regulation or any later amendments or changes thereto.

Author: Timothy Martin PharmD, President

Statutory Authority:Code of Ala. 1975, §§34-23-1(21) (25), 34-23-92(6).

History: New Rule: Filed January 13, 2006; effective February 17, 2006. Amended: Filed July 21, 2006; effective August 25, 2006. Amended: Filed April 29, 2016; effective June 13, 2016. Amended: Filed June 16, 2021; effective October 15, 2021.