How often must a pharmacist provide face-to-face counseling for new prescriptions?

The correct answer indicates that a pharmacist must provide face-to-face counseling for all new prescriptions and annually thereafter. This requirement is rooted in the standards of pharmacy practice, which emphasize the importance of patient education and communication about medications.

When a patient receives a new prescription, it is crucial for the pharmacist to communicate key information regarding the medication, such as its purpose, how to take it, potential side effects, and any interactions with other medications. This initial counseling ensures that the patient understands their medication and can use it safely and effectively.

Additionally, the annual counseling requirement supports ongoing patient education, allowing the pharmacist to address any new concerns or questions the patient may have since their last visit. This practice helps maintain a higher standard of care and deepens the pharmacist-patient relationship, fostering better adherence to medication regimens over time. Moreover, it aligns with the broader patient care goals in pharmacy, aiming to enhance health outcomes through informed medication use.

In contrast, the other options either limit counseling to only certain occasions or do not capture the comprehensive intent of continuous patient education, which is essential for effective pharmaceutical care.