Who should a pharmacist contact if they do not receive a cover script for an emergency verbal order within 7 days?

The correct choice reflects the regulatory requirement that governs emergency verbal orders in a pharmacy setting. In the context of controlled substances, when a pharmacist receives an emergency verbal order, federal regulations permit that a written prescription (or "cover script") must be provided by the prescriber within a specific timeframe, which is typically 7 days. If the pharmacist does not receive this cover script within the stipulated period, it is essential to take action to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) oversees the enforcement of laws concerning controlled substances. Contacting the DEA in this situation is appropriate because the lack of a cover script could potentially violate federal regulations surrounding the dispensing of controlled substances. Reporting this issue to the DEA allows for the appropriate regulatory body to investigate the matter further if necessary.

While contacting the physician might seem logical, it does not address the regulatory framework surrounding controlled substances as effectively as involving the DEA. The local pharmacy board could be relevant for state-level issues, but ultimately, it is the DEA that handles compliance with federal laws regarding controlled substances. Similarly, the medical director of a facility may not have the authority to address federal regulatory issues specifically concerning the lack of a cover script for an emergency order. Therefore, reaching out to the DEA is the