Antibiotic Policy

It is poor medical practice to empirically treat conditions that have not been properly diagnosed. This is especially true for treatments involving medications with potentially unpleasant or dangerous side effects, and for conditions in which empiric treatment would obscure the validity of subsequent proper diagnostic tests. 

The only antibiotic we will call in without a visit is one for a simple urinary tract infection (UTI) in a young woman who has a history of these. The prescription will be for a three-day course of Bactrim or Cipro, and the doctor must complete a phone consult with the patient.  This approach has been proven by research to be safe and effective. There will be a $25 charge for this service payable by credit card.

Any other infection or circumstances will require a visit to determine if an antibiotic is appropriate.