Final answer:
Yes. Tennessee requires pharmacies to be capable of receiving electronic controlled substance prescriptions, aligning with federal recommendations. Electronic prescribing is a tool to monitor opioids and prevent prescription fraud. Psychologists with special training can also prescribe medication in some states.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Tennessee, pharmacies are indeed required to have the capability to receive electronic prescriptions for controlled substances. This measure is part of an effort to improve the monitoring and dispensing of controlled substances, including opioids, and is in line with federal regulations that encourage the use of electronic prescriptions to prevent prescription fraud and abuse. As of the Annals of Surgery's report in April 2017, adopting electronic prescriptions has been recommended as a method to better track and control opioid prescriptions, which is an essential step in addressing the opioid crisis.
However, it's important to note that while pharmacists are allowed to fill prescriptions, including controlled substances if electronic prescribing of such substances is available, psychologists—even in states like Louisiana where they have prescription privileges—cannot prescribe medications unless they meet specific criteria that include receiving additional training in psychopharmacology.