What must a physician check before writing a CII prescription for a new patient?

Before prescribing a Schedule II controlled substance (CII) for a new patient, it is essential for a physician to check the New Jersey Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP). The PMP is a database that tracks the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances within the state. By reviewing this information, the physician can identify if the patient has received prescriptions for controlled substances from other prescribers, which is crucial for ensuring patient safety and preventing potential abuse or diversion of these medications.

In New Jersey, there are legislative requirements mandating that prescribers consult the PMP before issuing certain prescriptions, including those for CII medications. This practice helps to create a more comprehensive view of the patient’s medication use history, thereby supporting responsible prescribing and enhancing the overall quality of patient care.

While considering the patient's medical history, insurance details, or previous prescriptions from other doctors are important factors in providing appropriate patient care, they do not carry the same specific legal requirements related to prescribing CII medications as consulting the PMP does. Therefore, ensuring to check the PMP is critical in fulfilling legal obligations and safeguarding against potential misuse of controlled substances.