Electronic prescriptions for controlled substances may be transmitted by which method?

• A. To a fax machine
• B. Computer to computer
• C. Mail
• D. Hand-delivered

Answer: (B)

Direct, secure computer-to-computer transmission is required for electronic prescriptions of controlled substances. This means the prescription data is sent electronically from the prescriber’s licensed e-prescribing system straight to the pharmacy’s receiving system using an approved, authenticated workflow. Such transmission is designed to protect privacy, ensure data integrity, and meet regulatory requirements (like encryption and two-factor authentication for prescribers).

Faxed, mailed, or hand-delivered options involve manual handling or non-electronic means, which do not satisfy the standards for electronic prescribing of controlled substances. They are not the secure, system-to-system transmissions that the regulations require.