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Prescription validity — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePharmacy Law and EthicsPrescription validityGPhC CRA

A patient emails a photograph of an NHS prescription for amoxicillin and asks the pharmacy to dispense before the original arrives. The prescriber cannot be contacted, and the patient is clinically stable. The pharmacist can see the image clearly. What is the legal classification/requirement?

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Correct answer: C — a photograph is not a legally valid prescription for dispensing a POM

A pharmacy generally needs a legally valid prescription, such as the original paper prescription or a valid electronic prescription, before dispensing a POM. A photograph or email copy does not have the same legal status. Emergency supply routes may be considered only if their legal conditions are met. The pharmacist should not dispense solely from the image.

Reference: Human Medicines Regulations 2012; MEP