When is it appropriate to use an emergency supply of medication?

Using an emergency supply of medication is appropriate in urgent situations where a patient requires medication but does not have a prescription at that moment. This could occur in scenarios such as needing essential medications for chronic conditions when a patient experiences an unforeseen circumstance that prevents them from obtaining their prescription on time. The goal is to ensure the patient's health and safety by providing immediate access to necessary medications in critical situations, thereby preventing possible deterioration of their condition.

In contrast, requesting a supply for convenience does not justify the need for an emergency supply, as this does not reflect a genuine healthcare need. Similarly, a patient who has knowingly run out of medication may not be experiencing an emergency situation, as they had the opportunity to manage their medication supply better. Lastly, running a special promotion does not provide a valid medical rationale for distributing emergency supplies, as the priority should always be the patient's health rather than marketing considerations.