Final answer:
Pharmacists are required to follow strict protocols when handling prescriptions, often verifying the authenticity of prescriptions faxed by patients before dispensing medications to ensure safety and adherence to regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a prescription is faxed by a patient, pharmacists are typically required to adhere to strict legal and regulatory protocols. In general, prescriptions should be transmitted directly from the prescribing provider to the pharmacist, ensuring validity and preventing fraud. If a patient has faxed the prescription, the pharmacist will most likely need to verify its authenticity directly with the doctor's office before dispensing the medication. The responsibility of a pharmacist extends beyond simply dispensing medication; they must also ensure that prescriptions are legitimate and that patients are counseled on the safe and effective use of their medications. Pharmacists use their expertise in chemistry and biology to understand drug effects on the body and provide vital health services.