What certificate must a physician assistant obtain from the DEA to prescribe Schedule III to V controlled substances?

To prescribe Schedule III to V controlled substances, a physician assistant must obtain a Qualified Alabama Controlled Substances Certification (QACSC) certificate. This certification is specifically designed for physician assistants, allowing them to prescribe certain controlled substances as part of their practice under the supervision of a licensed physician.

The QACSC ensures that the physician assistant is properly trained and authorized to handle and prescribe controlled substances, reflecting compliance with state laws and regulations. In Alabama, this certification is a crucial step for physician assistants who wish to extend their scope of practice to include the prescription of these specific controlled substances.

The other options do not apply to the requirements for physician assistants. For instance, a DEA Registration Certificate is typically required for individual practitioners who prescribe controlled substances but does not signify the same level of specialized certification as the QACSC for physician assistants. The Controlled Substances License is a generic term that is not specific to the requirements laid out for physician assistants in Alabama. Lastly, a State Pharmacy Permit pertains to pharmacies rather than individual practitioners and does not apply to physician assistants’ prescribing practices.