Originally Posted by TX RN
I believe TX is one of 7 (maybe 12) states that requires MD endorsement (supervision) for prescriptive priviliges and limits drug class that NP's are allowed to write for. From some e-mails that I've received from my school and CNAP it appears that TX is pretty restrictive (albeit it's relative to what state you reside in now). Hope that helps.
NP's in Texas can write controlled substances (Schedules III-V), but we must have a DEA # tied to a physician in order to do so. However, there are very few NP's who even bother to get a DEA number, because it isn't necessary to have one in order to write prescriptions. I practice in both primary and urgent care and it's very rare that I need to write a controlled substance. I know NP's and PA's who don't have a DEA number, so they just have a protocol set up with their SP and they just call the script into the pharmacy under the doc's name or have the doctor sign it if he's available. In the chart, they indicate that the medication was ordered by the doctor.
Also, we aren't allowed to write for more than a 30 day supply of a controlled substance nor are we allowed to refill a controlled substance. I actually LIKE it that way, b/c it gives me a way out when a drug seeker is asking for Lortab, etc.
Another thing, it cost $25.00 to get a TX DPS license and then $550.00 to get a DEA license, so make sure you get your SP to pay for it.