Prescribing Practices

The WSMA supports the physician's legal right to diagnose illnesses and injuries, prescribe a method of treatment, and dispense prescription medication. (Reaffirmed A-17)

The WSMA believes it unethical for a physician to be influenced in the prescribing of drugs or devices by his/her direct or indirect financial interest in a pharmaceutical firm or other supplier. (JC 8.06-87) (Reaffirmed A-17)

The WSMA believes that a patient is entitled to a copy of his/her prescription for glasses, drugs, or devices and he/she has the privilege of having the prescription filled wherever he/she wishes. (JC 8.06-87) (Reaffirmed A-17)

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Abbreviations for House of Delegates report origination:

EC – Executive Committee; BT – Board of Trustees; CPA – Council on Professional Affairs; JC – Judicial Council; CHS – Community and Health Services