What are instructions from medical practitioners authorizing drug or device issuance to a patient called?

The term that refers to instructions from medical practitioners authorizing the issuance of a drug or device to a patient is known as prescriptions. Prescriptions are formal documents that detail the specific medication, dosage, and instructions for a patient’s treatment, and they must be written or electronically generated by a licensed healthcare provider.

In contrast, while "orders" can refer to similar instructions, they are typically used in a broader context within hospital or clinical settings, often relating to procedures or treatments rather than specifically medications. "Referrals" involve directing a patient to a specialist or different healthcare provider for further care, rather than authorizing medication use. "Authorizations" usually pertain to approval processes for insurance coverage or services, which do not specifically relate to the issuance of drugs or devices. Thus, prescriptions are distinct in both their purpose and function within the healthcare system, specifically concerning medication management.