In Pennsylvania, several doctors are under scrutiny for issuing a high number of medical marijuana cards, raising questions about the fairness of targeting these physicians. Dr. Roxanne Rick of Monroeville, who has a history of disciplinary issues, approved over 27,000 cards in less than five years. Critics argue that no doctor should issue such a high volume of any medication without treating patients, yet Rick maintains the numbers are irrelevant.
Pennsylvania law requires doctors to certify patients for one of 23 conditions to qualify for medical marijuana, and there is no cap on the number of cards issued. The high numbers may reflect significant patient demand and the accessibility these doctors provide. For instance, a Philadelphia doctor issued over 43,000 cards, while two Eastern Pennsylvania doctors issued more than 30,000 each.
Despite their high issuance rates, these doctors appear to be following state laws and have received Health Department approval to prescribe marijuana. Some have past disciplinary records but have since had their licenses reinstated. Critics, like Dr. Libby Stout, express concerns that a small percentage of doctors issue a high volume of cards without properly treating patients, but supporters argue that these doctors provide a critical service, particularly in the context of the opioid crisis, where medical marijuana offers a safer alternative.
If you are facing scrutiny by a professional license board regarding marijuana prescriptions, the LLF Law Firm's Professional License Defense Team can help. We have represented numerous clients across the country to protect their medical licenses and careers. We want to help you, too. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or fill out our online contact form.
Does Writing a High Volume of Marijuana Prescriptions Violate the Law?
Issuing a high volume of medical marijuana prescriptions is a practice that does not necessarily violate the law. Across the country, the medical marijuana landscape is governed by state-specific regulations that allow doctors to recommend cannabis for various qualifying conditions. However, state laws generally do not impose a cap on the number of medical marijuana certifications a doctor can issue.
The high volume of prescriptions often mirrors growing patient demand. As knowledge about the benefits of medical marijuana grows, many patients are turning away from opioids and seeking marijuana prescriptions to help with conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, migraines, and more. At the same time, many doctors are using their professional judgment to determine that medical marijuana presents a safer, non-addictive alternative to opioids. The medical community's increasing acceptance of marijuana as a therapeutic option may lead to higher prescription rates. High prescription volumes can indicate an effective and responsive practice, particularly in underserved areas.
Medical boards targeting doctors with high prescription rates for marijuana undermine their ability to provide essential medical services and can put their reputation, license, and livelihood at risk. As long as physicians fully comply with their state's laws, their high prescription rates should be considered to reflect their professional medical judgment. That said, doctors who prescribe marijuana in high volume should keep immaculate records for every patient and prescription to avoid accusations of negligence, malpractice, or other impropriety.
Protect Your Medical License with Experienced Legal Professionals
The LLF Law Firm's Professional License Defense Team has helped defend doctors nationwide facing board inquiries for alleged misconduct. We can help you gather evidence, prepare for your hearing, and negotiate with the medical licensing board on your behalf. Protect your medical license today by calling 888-535-3686 or scheduling a consultation online to learn how we can assist you.
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