What actions are considered as “doctor shopping”?

The act of "doctor shopping" primarily involves a patient visiting multiple healthcare practitioners in order to obtain prescriptions for controlled substances. This behavior signifies an attempt to manipulate the healthcare system to access medications that may not be genuinely needed, often with the intent to misuse or abuse these medications. Individuals engaging in this practice may seek out different providers to bypass restrictions or to acquire higher quantities of drugs than would be permitted by a single physician.

In contrast, receiving treatments from multiple specialists, seeking second opinions, or switching doctors for regular check-ups are considered standard practices within healthcare, aimed at ensuring comprehensive and varying perspectives on medical issues or facilitating better health management. These actions are undertaken with ideal motivations for patient care rather than any intent related to substance misuse.