In which way can a physician assistant prescribe or dispense drugs?

A physician assistant (PA) can prescribe or dispense medications through both written prescriptions and oral orders, as this aligns with the regulations governing their practice. It is essential for PAs to have the flexibility to communicate prescriptions effectively in various contexts, including situations where a patient requires immediate medication and a written prescription may not be feasible.

Written prescriptions provide a documented and secure method of prescribing that can be easily processed by pharmacies. Oral orders allow for more immediate communication, enabling timely patient care. This dual capability ensures that PAs can provide comprehensive care while adhering to legal standards.

Other options are limited in their scope. Verbal orders alone would restrict PAs from utilizing written documentation, which is a crucial aspect of record-keeping and ensuring that prescriptions are accurately filled. Similarly, prescribing solely through electronic means or limiting to just written prescriptions would not adequately accommodate all scenarios encountered in clinical practice. Thus, the correct answer reflects the full range of prescribing methods available to physician assistants in an effective and practical manner.