Can a pharmacist fill a prescription written by a physician who has died?

A pharmacist cannot fill a prescription written by a physician who has died because a deceased physician no longer holds the legal authority to prescribe medications. The physician's death effectively cancels any ongoing patient-provider relationships, and prescriptions written by them cease to be valid.

This principle is crucial for patient safety and regulatory compliance. Prescriptions must originate from a licensed healthcare provider who is alive and legally authorized to practice medicine. While patients may often rely on their ongoing medications, the law requires that a new evaluation by a living prescriber occurs to ensure the appropriateness and safety of the medication therapy. Thus, filling a prescription from a deceased physician compromises not only legal standards but also the foundational ethical practices in pharmacy regarding patient care.

In certain circumstances, like refills or emergencies, the pharmacist may wish to consider alternatives, but legally, fulfilling a prescription from a deceased physician without a new authorized prescription is not permissible.