Under what circumstances can a prescription for a Class II controlled substance be faxed to a pharmacy in Alaska?

A prescription for a Class II controlled substance can be faxed to a pharmacy in Alaska specifically when it involves patients in hospice care or certain other defined situations. This rule is designed to ensure that patients who may benefit from immediate access to these medications—like those in hospice—are not delayed due to the traditional requirement of an original signed prescription.

In certain cases, such as those involving long-term care facilities or home infusion therapy, a faxed prescription may also be permissible. These instances take into account the necessity for timely medication administration while still adhering to the regulatory framework that governs the handling of controlled substances.

The regulation is primarily focused on balancing patient needs with safety and control measures surrounding the distribution of potentially addictive medications. Faxing the prescription in these scenarios allows for a more streamlined process that can ultimately support patient care without compromising safety.