Which method allows for the issuance of Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substance prescriptions to a community pharmacy?

The method that allows for the issuance of Schedule III, IV, and V controlled substance prescriptions to a community pharmacy is a fax of a written, signed prescription transmitted by the prescriber. This process is acceptable under the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations, which allow for the transmission of prescriptions via fax for these specific controlled substances.

The reason a faxed prescription is appropriate is that it maintains a level of security and verification through the signature of the prescriber, which helps ensure that the prescription is legitimate and originates from a licensed individual. This method also provides the pharmacy with a clear, documented form of the prescription, which can be processed in a manner consistent with other prescription management practices.

Other options, such as emailing or verbal confirmations, may not meet the regulatory requirements and security standards necessary for controlled substances, and a simple handwritten note lacks the formal verification and tracking that a fax provides.