Are there any restrictions or limitations on the use of physician assistants to obtain prescription drugs?

In Washington, yes, there are restrictions and limitations on the use of physician assistants to obtain prescription drugs. According to the Washington State Health Care Authority, physician assistants are not authorized to independently prescribe any controlled substances. This means that even if the physician assistant is working under the supervision of a doctor, they are not allowed to prescribe controlled substances like opiates or stimulants. The Washington State Medical Association also has regulations regarding the amount of drugs that can be prescribed in a 30-day period. Physicians and physician assistants together cannot prescribe more than a 30-day supply of a Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substance. They also cannot prescribe more than a total of 60 dosage units of any Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substance. Certain regulations are in place in order to limit the potential for drug abuse. For example, when prescribing opiate medications, physicians and physician assistants must conduct assessments and initiate individualized patient treatment plans. This helps to ensure that the drug is used properly and for its intended purpose. In addition, the law requires that physicians and physician assistants hold an opioid-related education certificate, and must engage in continuing education activities related to opioid use disorder. For these reasons, there are several restrictions and limitations on the use of physician assistants to obtain prescription drugs in Washington State.

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