Considerations for Prescribing Non-Controlled Substances When Using Telemedicine

To assure patient safety and legal compliance while prescribing non-controlled drugs via telemedicine in California, healthcare practitioners must follow specific guidelines. Before beginning any prescription, creating a proper patient-provider relationship that meets the Medical Board of California’s criteria is critical. This often includes a thorough review of the patient’s medical history, necessary diagnostic testing, and a detailed assessment of the patient’s current health status via the telehealth platform. Practitioners should be aware of and adhere to state telemedicine regulations, maintaining updates about any unique requirements or limits linked to remotely prescribing drugs (Rahim & Alshahrani, 2023). To meet legal and ethical needs, clear documentation of the telehealth contact, including the rationale for prescribing non-controlled drugs, must be kept.

Furthermore, healthcare professionals must evaluate the limitations and problems of telemedicine to ensure that virtual engagement is maintained for the quality of service. Patients should be taught the proper use of prescribed medications, potential adverse effects, and the significance of follow-up treatment through efficient communication tactics. To offer the best care when prescribing non-controlled medications via telemedicine in California, practitioners must stay informed and modify their practices as technology and telehealth legislation advance.

References

Alexander, D., & Schnell, M. (2019). Just what the nurse practitioner ordered: Independent prescriptive authority and population mental health. Journal of Health Economics, 66, 145–162. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhealeco.2019.04.004

Rahim, S. A. -, & Alshahrani, S. (2023). Ethical considerations in telemedicine and remote healthcare. Saudi Journal of Nursing and Health Care, 6(07), 241–246. https://doi.org/10.36348/