Patients often ask why we can’t just prescribe a medication without seeing the patient. Please be aware that we are obligated to follow the regulations set forth by the NJ Medical Board:

BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY

13:35-7.1A EXAMINATION OF PATIENT'S CONDITION REQUIRED PRIOR TO DISPENSING DRUGS OR ISSUING A PRESCRIPTION...

   a) … a practitioner shall not dispense drugs or issue prescriptions to an individual, pursuant to the requirements of this subchapter, without first having conducted an examination, which shall be appropriately documented in the patient record. As part of the patient examination, the practitioner shall:

1) Perform an appropriate history and physical examination;

2) Make a diagnosis based upon the examination and all diagnostic and laboratory tests consistent with good medical care;

3) Formulate a therapeutic plan and discuss such plan, along with the basis for the plan and the risks and benefits of various treatment options, with the patient; and

4) Ensure the availability of the physician or coverage for the patient for appropriate follow-up care.