Legal Question in Medical Malpractice in California
persons without doctor degree allowed to dispense 6 narcotic meds?
If a referral is made from your primary doctor to see the surgeon(specific area), who performed a previous surgery(unsuccessful + additional problems) sees you for a re evaluation + new m r i sees patient 1 visit stating he wants to: go in undo what he had previously done, flip me over, go in the other side and do re constructive surgery & he'll request authorization & to return 4 weeks for follow up. at the next appointment it isnt your doctor its an assistant whom you have never seen. you request to speak to the doctor. He says, he's unavailable & cont. to explain the meds -He- wants to give me (I receive my medications from my primary doctor) no answer to speak to doc. He tells me I need to exercise has me stand up and starts pushing my arms past the point where its VERY painful. lets go & tells me I know you are hurting but you need to do this. that's why your not better. Again, I ask to see the doctor. He says, I'll be back to discuss the meds. Leaves/ret. with bag of VARIOUS meds 6. in boxes + 2. I ask,'' Dont you need to know what other meds I take? Ok.says return 4 wks. leaving, I hear the doctor behind me he dosn't acknolege me. Asst. can write perscripts? Last report says overall ok but need surg? Is this normal?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: persons without doctor degree allowed to dispense 6 narcotic meds?
I can't follow your description of events, but narcotic medication must be prescribed by a physician, although doctors frequently use physician assistants. The actions of a PA are the legal equvalent of the action of the supervising MD.
Re: persons without doctor degree allowed to dispense 6 narcotic meds?
I agree with Mr. Roth, and, yes, P.A.'s can, and do. write prescriptions.