Can a pharmacy operate without a pharmacist present?

A pharmacy must have a licensed pharmacist present at all times to ensure that all medication dispensing and patient care activities meet legal standards and professional guidelines. The pharmacist's presence is crucial for clinical oversight, ensuring that patients receive the correct medications, dosages, and counseling about potential side effects and drug interactions. This requirement helps maintain patient safety and the integrity of pharmaceutical practices.

Technicians, while valuable in their role, do not possess the same authority or expertise as licensed pharmacists and therefore cannot assume responsibilities that require a pharmacist’s oversight. Certain scenarios, such as a pharmacy being closed to the public, do not exempt the necessity for a pharmacist’s presence during operational hours. Moreover, having specific hours where a pharmacist is absent would jeopardize the quality of care and regulatory compliance, making it critical for pharmacies to have a pharmacist on duty at all times.