Final answer:
Laws for faxing prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances (CII's) are governed by the DEA and state regulations. Faxing is generally allowed for direct administration to patients in specific care settings or in defined emergency situations, but state laws may have further stipulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The laws concerning fascimile (fax) prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances (CII's) are set by both federal regulations and individual state laws. Under the Controlled Substances Act, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) allows faxed prescriptions for CII substances in certain situations, such as when the medication is for direct administration to a patient by parenteral, intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intraspinal infusion. Additionally, faxed CII prescriptions are permitted for residents of long-term care facilities, or for patients enrolled in a hospice care program. However, it's important to note that the individual state laws may impose additional restrictions or requirements for faxing CII prescriptions, which must also be observed by healthcare professionals.
CII prescriptions generally require a written and signed prescription from the prescribing practitioner. However, in the emergency situations specified by the DEA, a practitioner may fax a prescription to the dispensing pharmacy, and the fax serves as the original written prescription. Even in these cases, it's essential to ensure that all proper procedures are followed, including verification of the practitioner's DEA number and compliance with state regulations.