Can PAs prescribe controlled substances in NY?

• A. No
• B. Only with written authorization from the supervising physician
• C. Yes
• D. Only Schedule II substances

Answer: (C)

In New York, a physician assistant can prescribe controlled substances when the supervising physician has delegated prescriptive authority and the PA holds the appropriate prescriber registrations. With this authority, a PA may prescribe controlled substances across the schedules (II–V) as part of patient care, within the limits of their delegated authority and applicable regulations. It isn’t restricted to Schedule II only, and it isn’t just a one-time written authorization—the ability to prescribe is an ongoing part of the PA’s practice under supervision and regulatory requirements. That’s why the correct answer is Yes.