What do we Mean by Prescribing Competence?
Every physician, no matter what specialty, must learn to prescribe competently, which means choosing medications based on an accurate diagnosis, indication, prior therapies, applying high levels of evidence for effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness. In addition, prescribing competence requires ongoing monitoring for benefit and harm, expertise in patient communications, knowledge of the regulatory and formulary environment, and an ability to de-prescribe appropriately.