Finding a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Cefazolin

If you or a loved one needs Cefazolin — a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic given by injection — your first step is finding the right healthcare provider. Because Cefazolin is an IV or intramuscular medication used for serious infections and surgical prevention, you'll typically need a specialist or hospital-based doctor to prescribe it.

This guide walks you through exactly which doctors prescribe Cefazolin, how to find one near you, and what to expect during your appointment.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Cefazolin?

Cefazolin isn't something you'd normally get from a quick urgent care visit. It's an injectable antibiotic used for conditions like skin infections, urinary tract infections, bone and joint infections, bloodstream infections, and surgical prophylaxis. Because of that, several types of doctors may prescribe it:

• Infectious disease specialists — These doctors are the go-to experts for serious or complicated infections that need IV antibiotics like Cefazolin.
• Surgeons (general, orthopedic, cardiac, OB/GYN) — Surgeons commonly order Cefazolin before and during operations to prevent surgical site infections.
• Hospitalists and internal medicine doctors — If you're admitted to the hospital with an infection, these doctors often manage your antibiotic treatment.
• Emergency medicine physicians — ER doctors may start Cefazolin in urgent situations like sepsis or severe skin infections.
• OB/GYN doctors — They may prescribe Cefazolin for Group B strep prophylaxis during labor or for cesarean section prophylaxis.
• Family medicine doctors — In some cases, your primary care doctor may prescribe Cefazolin for outpatient IV therapy (OPAT).

If you already know you need Cefazolin — for example, your doctor recommended it but you need a new provider — an infectious disease specialist is usually your best bet.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Here are the most effective ways to locate a doctor who can prescribe Cefazolin in your area:

1. Ask Your Primary Care Doctor for a Referral

Your PCP can refer you to an infectious disease specialist or surgeon who regularly prescribes IV antibiotics. This is often the fastest route, especially if your insurance requires referrals.

2. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Log into your health insurance website and search for infectious disease doctors or the relevant specialty in your network. This ensures you won't face surprise out-of-network charges.

3. Search Hospital Websites

Major hospitals and academic medical centers list their specialists online. Look for infectious disease departments or outpatient infusion centers — both are strong indicators the facility handles Cefazolin prescriptions regularly.

4. Check With Local Infusion Centers

If you need home infusion or outpatient IV therapy, infusion centers can often connect you with prescribing physicians. They work closely with doctors who manage patients on IV antibiotics like Cefazolin.

5. Use Medfinder

If you're struggling to find Cefazolin in stock, Medfinder can help you locate pharmacies and providers in your area. It's especially useful during shortage periods.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you see a doctor about Cefazolin, here's what typically happens:

• Medical history review — Your doctor will ask about your infection, symptoms, past antibiotic use, and any allergies (especially to penicillin or cephalosporins).
• Lab work — Blood cultures, wound cultures, or other tests may be ordered to confirm the infection and ensure Cefazolin is the right choice.
• Allergy assessment — If you have a penicillin allergy, your doctor will evaluate whether Cefazolin is safe for you. The cross-reactivity rate between penicillins and cephalosporins is only about 1-2%.
• Treatment plan discussion — Your doctor will explain the dosing schedule (typically every 6-8 hours), how long treatment will last, and where you'll receive it (hospital, infusion center, or home).

Be sure to mention all medications you're currently taking. Cefazolin can interact with drugs like warfarin and probenecid.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once your doctor prescribes Cefazolin, the next steps depend on your treatment setting:

• Hospital or infusion center — The facility pharmacy will prepare and administer your Cefazolin. You don't need to fill a prescription at a retail pharmacy.
• Home infusion (OPAT) — A specialty pharmacy or home infusion company will deliver Cefazolin to your home, along with supplies. A nurse will train you or your caregiver on how to administer it safely.

If Cefazolin is hard to find due to shortages, check our guide on how to find Cefazolin in stock. You can also explore alternatives to Cefazolin with your doctor if supply is limited.

To learn about potential costs and savings, read our guide on how to save money on Cefazolin.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor who can prescribe Cefazolin doesn't have to be complicated. Start with your primary care doctor for a referral, check your insurance directory, or reach out to local infusion centers. If you're dealing with a shortage, Medfinder can help you track down Cefazolin in your area.

The most important thing is to get the right treatment for your infection as quickly as possible. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself — call ahead, ask questions, and make sure your provider understands your needs.