Which statement is correct about counseling requirements?

• A. Counseling is optional
• B. Counseling is only for new prescriptions
• C. Counseling must occur on every new and refilled prescription
• D. Counseling is only required for mail-order prescriptions

Answer: (C)

Counseling is a required part of dispensing medications to ensure the patient can use the drug safely and effectively. It isn’t optional—the aim is to confirm the patient understands how to take the medication, what to expect, and what to do if something goes wrong. Because patient needs can change with each refill (different dosing, new safety considerations, potential interactions with new medicines), counseling is provided for every new prescription and for refills as well. It also applies regardless of how the prescription is delivered, so it’s not limited to mail-order. In short, thorough counseling helps protect patient safety and supports proper adherence, which is why the statement that counseling must occur on every new and refilled prescription is the correct one.