First Stop Health doctors may, at their discretion, recommend a prescription to a member, when they believe it is in the best interest of the member (medically) to do so. Drugs that our doctors typically prescribe include such common prescription drugs as antihistamines and antibiotics. Our doctors can also prescribe many maintenance medicines, usually on a one-time basis, such as those used to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension. This service is provided if a member is in transition to a new doctor or is traveling and has left a prescription medication behind.
Our doctors will only issue prescriptions if the doctor is able to gather the appropriate information to accurately diagnose and treat a given condition. A prescription is not guaranteed and doctors may refer members to their primary care physician, an urgent care center or other appropriate care for requested medications if they feel this is important to assure good medical care.
If our doctor does prescribe medication, he or she will normally limit the supply to no more than thirty days. Patients with chronic illnesses will be encouraged to visit their primary care physicians or other specialists for ongoing care.
First Stop Health doctors do not prescribe any medications that are listed on the DEA list of controlled substances, such as narcotics (e.g., oxycodone) or amphetamines (e.g., Adderall) and anti-anxiety drugs belonging to the benzodiazepine class of drugs (e.g., Klonopin, Lorazepam, Valium, and Xanax,) Nor do they prescribe lifestyle medications (e.g., Viagra) or diet pills (e.g., phentermine). Additionally, we do not provide prescriptions for anxiety, depression, or ongoing psychiatric illnesses (e.g., Abilify, and Prozac). Additionally, our doctors are unable to provide prescriptions for Tramadol or for medical marijuana.
For Virtual Primary Care Services only:
A First Stop Health doctor may prescribe a lifestyle medication (e.g. Viagra) if a member is receiving virtual primary care services. The medication will be prescribed only if the doctor deems it safe and appropriate as determined by the doctor in their discretion and professional judgment. If a doctor prescribes a medication, the doctor will limit supply based upon state regulations. There is no guarantee a lifestyle prescription will be written.