How frequently must a supervising pharmacist be available in a pharmacy?

The requirement for a supervising pharmacist to be available in a pharmacy is crucial for ensuring compliance with state regulations and maintaining proper oversight of pharmacy operations. In Alabama, the law mandates that a supervising pharmacist must be available daily. This ensures that there is always a qualified and licensed individual responsible for overseeing the pharmacy's activities, making critical decisions, and addressing any issues that arise during daily operations.

Having a supervising pharmacist available daily allows them to provide guidance on medication management, supervise the dispensing process, ensure the accuracy of prescriptions, and uphold safety standards. This consistent presence is essential for maintaining the integrity of pharmacy practice and protecting patient safety. It fosters an environment where pharmacy staff can consult with the supervising pharmacist on pertinent issues, ensuring that the pharmacy operates efficiently and within legal requirements.

In contrast, the other options would not provide the necessary level of oversight for pharmacy operations. Hourly availability, while seemingly more vigilant, is typically impractical and not required; weekly availability does not provide sufficient oversight for daily operations; and every 90 days would be inadequate for ensuring consistent compliance with regulations and patient care standards. Thus, the requirement for a supervising pharmacist to be present daily is essential for the effective functioning of a pharmacy.