Electronic Prescribing Systems
What they do
Electronic prescribing (ePrescribing or eRx) transmits prescription or prescription-related information between a prescriber, dispenser, pharmacy benefit manager or health plan.
ePrescribing includes, but is not limited to, two-way transmissions between the physician practice and the pharmacy that can allow you to:
- Manage all your patients’ prescriptions from your computer, including receiving electronic notification when you need to authorize refills
- View potential drug interactions, side effects and potential allergic reactions—as an added benefit, decision support is often integrated into these systems
- View prescription drug coverage and insurance information
“Electronic systems can check each prescription as it is written, either for internal inconsistencies such as excessive dosage or for conflicts with the patient’s known allergies, interactions with other active medications, duplicate therapy and many other conditions.”
—eHealth Initiative. Electronic Prescribing: Toward Maximum Value and Rapid Adoption, 2004
Who is using ePrescribing
For many physicians, ePrescribing is an attractive and intuitive first step into health IT. Physicians can choose to implement an ePrescribing system without implementing other health IT applications.
What it requires
There is a wide range of e-Prescribing systems and functionality. To help you navigate your options and choose a system that meets your practice’s needs, you may want to visit Zero-InRx™, the AMA’s ePrescribing Learning Center.
Things to consider
Learn more about ePrescribing by reading A Clinician’s Guide to Electronic Prescribing. A list of FAQs and other informational resources regarding Medicare’s Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program may also be helpful.
