What services must hospitals maintain according to regulations?

Hospitals are required to maintain certain essential services to ensure that they operate in accordance with health regulations and provide adequate care to patients. Pharmacy services are crucial as they ensure the safe and effective distribution of medications to patients, which is a fundamental aspect of patient care. Medical records maintenance is equally vital because it helps in tracking patient health history, treatments, and outcomes, which are necessary for providing quality care and for legal and billing purposes.

The inclusion of these services in hospital regulations is critical for maintaining standards of care and ensuring patient safety. By effectively managing medications and maintaining comprehensive medical records, hospitals can minimize errors and enhance the overall health care experience for patients.

Other options presented, such as home health services and alternative therapies, or focusing solely on specialty services and outpatient care, do not encompass the broad range of required services that hospitals must maintain. Additionally, while research facilities and educational programs can be part of a hospital's functions, they are not universally mandated services that every hospital must provide according to regulations. Hence, the focus on pharmacy services and medical records reflects the core operational responsibilities of hospitals in the health care system.