All states require that physicians practicing in the state be licensed to do so. State Medical Boards Are Concerned About the Prescribing Services Offered by Some Internet Pharmacies

State medical boards have concerns about the growing number of Internet pharmacies that issue prescriptions on the basis of a simple online questionnaire rather than a face-to-face examination. Conclusions

The unique qualities of the Internet pose new challenges for enforcing state pharmacy and medical practice laws because they allow pharmacies and physicians to reach consumers across state and international borders and remain anonymous.
What GAO Found

The first Internet pharmacies began online service in early 1999. Public health officials are concerned about Internet pharmacies that do not adhere to state licensing requirements and standards. Public officials are also concerned about the validity of prescriptions and international drugs that are not approved in the United States being sent by mail. The unique qualities of the Internet pose new challenges for enforcing state pharmacy and medical practice laws because they allow pharmacies and physicians to reach consumers across state and international borders and remain anonymous. Congress is considering legislation to strengthen oversight of Internet pharmacies.