Final answer:
Pharmacies can perform a partial fill on CII prescriptions for up to 30 days after the prescription is written, with certain conditions being met, and extended provisions are in place for patients who are terminally ill or in long term care facilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pharmacy is allowed to provide a partial fill on Schedule II controlled substances (CII) for up to 30 days after the prescription is written. However, certain conditions must be met for a partial fill of a CII prescription to be compliant with the law. The circumstances under which this is permissible include:
- The patient requests a smaller quantity.
- The pharmacy does not have enough of the medication in stock to fill the prescription fully.
- In the case of terminally ill or long term care facility patients, different rules apply allowing for up to 60 days to complete the fill.
It is crucial for pharmacies and their staff to understand and follow the DEA regulations surrounding the dispensing of controlled substances, to ensure compliance with federal law and to prevent misuse or diversion of medications.