Ohio Pharmacy Law Practice Test

What type of signature is required on all prescriptions issued on paper by a prescriber?

1. Digital signature

2. Wet-ink signature, on day of issue

3. Electronic signature

4. Stamp signature

The correct answer is: Wet-ink signature, on day of issue

The requirement for a wet-ink signature on all prescriptions issued on paper by a prescriber is rooted in the need for authenticity and accountability in prescription practices. A wet-ink signature indicates that the prescriber personally reviewed and authorized the prescription, ensuring that it complies with legal and regulatory standards. This type of signature is a traditional practice that provides a tangible verification of the prescriber's intent and can be easily verified if needed. In contrast, while digital and electronic signatures are valid in certain contexts, they apply primarily to electronic prescriptions and have specific regulations governing their use. Stamp signatures, although a quick method to endorse documents, lack the necessary personal touch and accountability that a wet-ink signature embodies, making them generally unacceptable for official prescription documents. Thus, the wet-ink signature stands out as the required method for paper prescriptions to maintain the integrity of the medication dispensing process.