Can you leave oral prescriptions on a recording device (voicemail)?

• A. No
• B. Only for non-controlled substances
• C. Not recommended
• D. Yes

Answer: (D)

Verbal orders are a normal way for a prescriber to communicate a prescription to a pharmacist, and leaving that order on a voicemail is an acceptable way to capture the instruction when proper safeguards are in place. The important point is accuracy and documentation: the voicemail should clearly record all essential details (patient name, drug, strength, dosage form, directions, quantity, and prescriber identity) and the pharmacist must log the time and preserve a record of the order. The prescriber should countersign with a written or electronic prescription within the allowable time frame to complete the process. This approach supports timely dispensing while maintaining accountability; for non-controlled substances it’s typically straightforward, but for controlled substances there are additional rules that may require later verification or a written prescription. Privacy should be protected, and access to the voicemail should be restricted to authorized staff.