Which statement is true about PAs and controlled substances in NY?

• A. Yes, they may prescribe controlled substances
• B. They cannot prescribe controlled substances
• C. They may prescribe only non-scheduled substances
• D. They may prescribe only with hospital approval

Answer: (A)

In New York, physician assistants may prescribe controlled substances when they are practicing under the supervision of a physician and within the scope of their delegated authority. This prescriptive power requires the PA to have the proper credentials and a supervising physician who authorizes the prescription, with adherence to state regulations and DEA requirements. The authority isn’t limited to hospital settings; PAs can prescribe in clinics and other practice environments as long as supervision exists. They can handle Schedule II–V medications under the right safeguards.

So, the statement that PAs may prescribe controlled substances is correct. The idea that they cannot prescribe is false, that they may prescribe only non-scheduled substances is false, and that they must obtain hospital approval for all prescribing is also inaccurate.