Can california physicians mail drugs

In California, physicians can prescribe controlled substances, including Schedule II-V drugs, via telemedicine and mail-order pharmacies, but there are certain requirements and restrictions that must be followed.

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Telemedicine: California law allows physicians to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine, as long as the patient has a valid prescription and the physician has a valid DEA registration. The patient must also be physically present in California at the time of the telemedicine consultation.
  2. Mail-order pharmacies: California-licensed pharmacies can fill prescriptions for controlled substances and mail them to patients. However, the pharmacy must be registered with the DEA and have a valid California pharmacy license.
  3. Prescription requirements: Physicians must follow the same prescription requirements as they would for in-person prescriptions, including:
    • A valid patient-doctor relationship
    • A legitimate medical purpose
    • A written prescription with the patient's name, address, and dosage instructions
  4. DEA registration: Physicians who prescribe controlled substances, including those via telemedicine or mail-order pharmacies, must have a valid DEA registration.
  5. State-specific regulations: California has its own set of regulations regarding the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances. For example, California law requires that physicians who prescribe controlled substances for chronic pain or opioid use disorder must have a valid DEA registration and complete a training program on opioid prescribing.
  6. Patient consent: Patients must provide informed consent before receiving a prescription for a controlled substance via telemedicine or mail-order pharmacy.
  7. Monitoring and reporting: Physicians and pharmacies must monitor patients' use of controlled substances and report any suspicious activity or potential diversion to the DEA and California authorities.

It's essential for California physicians to familiarize themselves with the state's specific regulations and guidelines regarding the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances via telemedicine and mail-order pharmacies.