When can a pharmacist in Delaware refuse to fill a prescription?

A pharmacist in Delaware is obligated to ensure the safety and welfare of patients. If a pharmacist suspects that a prescription may be fraudulent or could harm the patient, it is their duty to refuse to fill it. This decision is grounded in the ethical responsibility to protect patients from potential medication misuse or adverse effects that could arise from taking a drug that is not medically warranted or is improperly prescribed.

In situations where there are clear indicators of fraud—such as alterations to the prescription or discrepancies in the prescribing patterns of a physician—it is crucial for the pharmacist to act accordingly. Additionally, if a prescription appears to be harmful because of the patient's health history or potential interactions with other medications, the pharmacist must prioritize patient safety over other considerations.

While financial concerns, personal feelings towards a physician, or a patient's history with medication compliance may influence a pharmacist's judgment in certain contexts, they do not provide valid legal or ethical grounds for refusing to fill a prescription. Therefore, the ability to refuse a prescription primarily hinges on concerns about the legitimacy and safety of the medication for the patient.