Our prescribing philosophy reflects our commitment to patient-centered, clinically sound, and ethically responsible care.

Providers may recommend a prescription when it is in the patient's best interest, taking into account symptoms, health history, and individual needs. Prescriptions are provided only when the clinical information gathered virtually is sufficient to ensure safe and appropriate care.

We prioritize cost-effective, generic medications whenever possible, and our care teams support members with referrals, lab work, and navigating benefits for follow-up care.

Urgent care providers may prescribe medications such as antibiotics, antivirals, antihistamines, topical treatments, and GI medications.

They can also provide short-term refills for certain maintenance medications used to manage conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension. This service is available when a member is between providers or traveling and unable to access their regular prescriptions.

Medications prescribed are subject to state and federal regulations.

In addition to medications for acute conditions, primary care providers can prescribe medications for chronic disease management, including conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and high cholesterol.

They may also provide non-controlled behavioral health medications, including SSRIs and SNRIs, when clinically appropriate for anxiety or depression.

Additionally, primary care providers can prescribe women’s health medications, such as hormonal contraceptives and treatments for menopause-related symptoms, as well as men’s health medications that address sexual health or hair loss.

Medications prescribed are subject to state and federal regulations.

Urgent care providers do not prescribe lifestyle medications (e.g., erectile dysfunction medications, weight loss drugs), medications for ongoing psychiatric illnesses (though short-term treatment for anxiety may be provided in limited cases and refills as described above), or medical marijuana.

Neither urgent care nor primary care providers at First Stop Health can prescribe DEA Schedule II-V medications in any care setting.

When possible, providers will recommend alternative medications or will refer members to an in-person provider.

Sometimes members can feel frustrated if a provider doesn’t prescribe antibiotics. However, we follow evidence-based practices and prescribe antibiotics only when medically appropriate.

Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like colds, flu, or most sore throats, and unnecessary use can cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

When a member’s symptoms don’t clearly indicate a bacterial infection, providers may recommend symptom relief and close monitoring instead. If the condition worsens or requires further evaluation, the member is referred for in-person care.

Understanding this process can help you explain why a prescription wasn’t given and reassure them that their care is safe and appropriate.