What is required for a pharmacy to operate legally?

To operate legally, a pharmacy must have a valid business license and be overseen by a registered pharmacist. The business license is essential as it ensures the pharmacy complies with local, state, and federal regulations regarding business operations. Without this license, a pharmacy is unable to conduct business legally.

Additionally, having a registered pharmacist is crucial because pharmacists are responsible for the safe dispensing of medications, providing patient care, and ensuring compliance with pharmacy laws. State boards of pharmacy often require that pharmacies have a licensed pharmacist present to supervise operations.

The other options do not fulfill the legal requirements to operate a pharmacy. High sales volume and low-income employees do not relate directly to the legal status of pharmacy operations. While partnerships with physicians can be beneficial in terms of referrals or collaboration, they are not a necessity for a pharmacy’s legal operation. Likewise, approval from pharmaceutical companies is not required to run a pharmacy, although such approval might assist in acquiring products for sale. Hence, the combination of a valid business license and a registered pharmacist is the fundamental legal requirement for a pharmacy's operation.