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-23)
The WSMA believes it unethical for a physician to be influenced in the
prescribing of drugs or devices by their direct or indirect financial
interest in a pharmaceutical firm or other supplier. (JC 8.06-87)
(Reaffirmed A-23)
The WSMA believes that a patient is entitled to a copy of their
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-23)
Return to the WSMA Policy Compendium index
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