A prescription must be retained by the pharmacy for how long after the last refill?

The requirement for retaining prescriptions in Ohio dictates that the pharmacy must keep each prescription record for a minimum of three years from the date of the last refill. This regulation aligns with the need to maintain proper documentation for legal, regulatory, and clinical purposes. Retaining records for this period ensures that pharmacies can provide verified medication histories, support continuity of care, and comply with any pharmacy audits or investigations that may arise.

The focus on the last refill date emphasizes the importance of tracking all transactions and modifications related to the medication, which helps in monitoring patient compliance and safety. This retention period facilitates pharmacists in ensuring they have accessible records for any medications dispensed, which is crucial for both patient safety and adherence to state laws governing pharmacy practice.