When federal and state record keeping requirements differ, which law should be adhered to?

When federal and state record-keeping requirements differ, the most stringent law should be adhered to. This principle is rooted in the concept of compliance prioritization, which holds that when regulations vary, the stricter standard is typically enforced to ensure higher levels of safety, accuracy, and accountability.

Pharmacy practice often requires adherence to both federal and state laws; therefore, these laws are designed to protect public health and ensure proper medication management. If one law imposes stricter requirements—such as longer retention periods for records or more detailed information to be recorded—it reflects a higher standard of care that is beneficial for patient safety and regulatory compliance. Following the most stringent law minimizes the risk of legal issues or sanctions that could arise from failing to meet higher standards.

This approach also aligns with the principle of minimizing public harm and optimizing the quality of care provided to patients. By adhering to the law that imposes the most stringent requirements, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians help safeguard against potential legal ramifications and uphold professional integrity in pharmacy practices.