Final answer:
Health care providers in North Carolina who may possess controlled substances include pharmacists, physicians, and dentists, as they are involved in the prescription and dispensation of medications. Hence, the answer to the question is 'd) Uncertain.' Pharmacists need a doctorate in pharmacy and a state license to practice.
Step-by-step explanation:
In North Carolina, the health care providers who may possess controlled substances include pharmacists, physicians, and dentists, as they all play roles in the prescription, dispensation, and administration of various medications, including controlled substances. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is d) Uncertain.
Pharmacists, in particular, have a career focus that involves dispensing drugs prescribed by a doctor. To become a pharmacist in the U.S., one must hold a doctorate in pharmacy and be licensed by the state they wish to practice in. Their roles extend beyond just filling prescriptions to advising both physicians and patients on drug interactions, dosage, and side effects.
Dentists and physicians similarly have the authorization to handle controlled substances within the scope of their professional practice. This is an essential aspect of their ability to provide comprehensive care to patients, whether for pain management, anesthesia, or other medically necessary purposes.