prescriber

A prescriber is a licensed health professional who is authorized to issue orders for medications, therapies, or medical devices to patients. The exact scope of prescribing authority is defined by national or regional law and by professional regulation, and it varies by profession and jurisdiction. In general, prescribers assess a patient’s condition, establish a diagnosis or treatment plan, and then provide a prescription or directive that specifies the chosen medication or intervention, the dosage or quantity, the route or method of administration, and the intended duration along with usage instructions.

Common prescribers include physicians and surgeons, dentists, optometrists, veterinarians, and, in many systems, nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Some jurisdictions also grant prescribing rights to pharmacists or midwives for specific medications or under collaborative arrangements. The prescriber is responsible for considering safety factors such as drug interactions, allergies, contraindications, and patient comorbidity, as well as for monitoring therapeutic response and adverse effects, and for adjusting therapy as needed.

Prescribing is typically documented in patient records and may be transmitted electronically to pharmacies. Prescribers must comply with legal controls, such as rules governing controlled substances, and with professional standards related to professional competence, patient confidentiality, and accurate record-keeping. The prescriber–patient relationship is foundational, and ongoing care often involves coordination with other clinicians to ensure safe and effective treatment.