How to Tell If a Doctor's Signature Is Real

With a little practice and a sample of the doctor's actual signature, anyone can learn to forge a doctor's signature. A forged signature can look especially realistic if an individual uses an actual doctor's prescription pad. Some individuals may forge a doctor's signature to write a doctor's excuse or to obtain prescription medication. Forging a doctor's signature for any reason is a felony offense. Fortunately, there are things you can do to tell if a doctor's signature is real.

Instructions

• 1

  Call the prescribing doctor's office for verification. If you are another health care provider -- such as a pharmacist -- you can call the office of the prescribing doctor to verify the prescription to be filled. The doctor's office will have a record of every prescription written for each patient in their office.

• 2

  Look for doctor terminology. If you are unsure of the signature, investigate other parts of the signature. For example, a doctor is likely to write PRN for take as needed. A nonmedical professional may not know this.

• 3

  Compare the signature. Look for other papers or prescriptions lying around. Look for similarities in the signature.

• 4

  Take note of the prescription pad used. Compare it to other notes or prescriptions written on a particular doctor's prescription pad. An individual may try to replicate a prescription pad for their own personal use.