Alabama PAs gain Schedule II prescribing authority

Leaders of the Alabama Society of Physician Assistants (PA) are celebrating the recent approval of rules for final adoption by the Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners (ALBME) that lay out the process for PAs to apply for Schedule II prescriptive authority. A law enacted in 2013 authorized the ALBME to create a Limited Purpose Schedule II Permit (LPSP) to allow PAs, certified registered nurse practitioners, and certified nurse-midwifes to lawfully prescribe, administer, and authorize for administration Schedule II controlled substances.

The newly approved rules lay out the qualifications and processes necessary for these providers to make a successful application for a Schedule II LPSP. The rules became effective yesterday. Application forms will be made available the same day, and LPSPs will be issued to qualified, approved applicants beginning January 1, 2015.

To qualify for an LPSP, PAs must meet the following requirements:

• Have a current, active, unrestricted Alabama license to practice as a PA; be registered to practice with a physician
• Have a current, active, unrestricted Qualified Alabama Controlled Substance Certificate for Schedules III, IV and V
• Submit the application forms provided by the ALBME
• Pay the required fee

Once an LPSP is issued, the permit holder must contact the DEA for a new DEA registration that includes Schedule II controlled substances.

Source: American Association of Physician Assistants