What is a "hard copy" prescription?

A "hard copy" prescription refers specifically to a written prescription that is printed on paper and presented by a patient to the pharmacy. This traditional method of receiving prescriptions provides a tangible document that includes necessary details such as the patient's information, the prescribed medication, dosage, and physician's signature.

While digital prescriptions, oral prescriptions, and electronic storage are becoming more common due to advancements in technology and convenience, they do not constitute a hard copy. The hard copy serves as a physical record and can be important for various reasons, such as verifying the prescription details and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards in the pharmacy practice.