Prohibition On Using Internet When Prescribing For a Patient

Many physicians know that the Florida Board of Medicine passed a rule in 2003 that prohibits Internet prescribing. But some don't realize that the rule doesn't just affect doctors who work for Internet pharmacies. The rule requires a physician to complete a history and physical examination on a patient prior to prescribing any drug. The only exceptions are: (1) true emergencies requiring immediate administration of medication, and (2) consults with another physician, or on-call or cross-coverage situations. Although newly available technology might allow a physician to access the patient's records via the Internet or communicate with patients via email, the requirements of the Board of Medicine remain the same. Click here for a copy of the rule. If you are an FMA member, you can email any questions about this rule to fplendl@medone.org.