Which healthcare provider is primarily responsible for processing and reviewing all prescriptions?

The retail pharmacist holds the primary responsibility for processing and reviewing all prescriptions. This role involves verifying that prescriptions are filled accurately based on the information provided by the healthcare provider, ensuring that the correct medication is dispensed in the appropriate dosage and form for the patient.

Retail pharmacists also assess potential drug interactions, review the appropriateness of the prescribed therapy considering the patient's medical history, and provide critical counseling to patients about their medications. This position is pivotal in the medication management process, as pharmacists have the training and expertise to ensure patient safety and adherence to pharmaceutical regulations.

While the submitting provider's office staff and clinical staff are involved in the initiation and handling of prescriptions, their roles do not extend to the critical evaluation and final processing of these prescriptions. Additionally, the prior authorization pharmacist operates within the insurance framework, focusing on ensuring that prescribed medications meet specific criteria for coverage, rather than handling the direct processing and dispensing of prescriptions. This delineation makes it clear why the retail pharmacist is the correct answer as they are directly involved in the final verification and safe dispensing of medications to patients.