• Drugs, Prescribing

    The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) opposes action that limits patients' access to pharmaceuticals prescribed by a physician using appropriate clinical training and knowledge, and opposes any actions by pharmaceutical companies, public or private health insurers, legislation, the FDA or any other agency, which may have the effect of limiting by specialty the use of any pharmaceutical product.

    The AAFP believes that only licensed doctors of medicine, osteopathy, dentistry, and podiatry should have the statutory authority to prescribe drugs for human consumption.

    Under physician supervision, physician assistants and advanced practice nurses may have the statutory authority to prescribe drugs for human consumption.

    Pharmacists should not alter a prescription written (e.g. quantity, dosage, or formulary) by a physician, except in an integrated practice supervised by a physician or when permitted by state law. Post-appointment prescription changes made due to physician/pharmacist consultation or insurance coverage issues should be communicated to the patient.

    In order to preserve patient confidentiality the Academy opposes any requirement that a diagnosis be placed on a prescription form. (1995) (2019 COD)