What is e-Prescribing?
e-Prescribing (electronic prescribing) also known as online prescribing refers to the process of electronically generating a prescription order 
and sending it directly from a healthcare provider to the patient’s pharmacy using electronic means, such as a computer or mobile device, instead of writing a paper prescription. It is designed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the prescription process and reduce errors related to handwritten prescriptions. It can help to reduce wait times for patients and improve the overall quality of care.
What is an e-Prescribing System?
An e-Prescribing solution is an electronic system that enables healthcare providers to prescribe medication to their patients and automate the prescription process. It typically consists of a computer or mobile device, a secure software application, and a connection to a centralized database that stores patient information and medication records.
The e-Prescribing system allows healthcare providers to access comprehensive information about a patient's medication history, including any allergies or interactions with other drugs. This information is used to ensure that the right medication is prescribed at the right dose, and helps to prevent medication errors.
Once the prescription is created, it can be sent electronically to the pharmacy, reducing wait times for patients and improving overall efficiency. In some cases, the e-Prescribing system may also be integrated with electronic health records (EHRs) to provide a comprehensive view of a patient's health information and medication history.
Standard Components of Electronic Prescription
Although e-prescribing systems vary in terms of available functionalities, most offer the following standard components.
Medication Selection
Providers can typically select from several medication options, including generic alternatives to brand-name drugs. When the patient’s insurance information is available, formulary options may also be included.
Prescription Creation and Submission
Prescriptions can be conveniently created on a provider’s desktop or mobile device and sent directly to the patient’s pharmacy. Most systems offer confirmation of prescription receipt and the ability to manage more than one prescription at a time.
Safety Checks
To prevent adverse interactions, e-prescribing software provides an alert if a prescription is considered a potential hazard for some reason. Possible issues include drug-drug interactions, medication duplication, patient allergies, and dosage amounts outside recommended ranges.
Authorization of Refills
When a patient needs a prescription refill, the pharmacy can send the request directly to the provider, who can then approve or deny the refill electronically.
Access to Medication History
Through various methods—such as the pharmacy’s database, insurance claims for medications, or the electronic medical record—providers can view the patient’s medication history to aid them in prescribing decisions.
Benefits of e-Prescribing
1. Improved patient safety
E-Prescribing systems can check for potential drug interactions, allergies, and other safety concerns before the medication is prescribed, reducing the risk of medication errors and improving patient safety.
2. Increased efficiency
E-Prescribing allows for faster, more efficient prescribing and reduces the time spent on manual processes, such as call backs to the pharmacy or writing prescriptions by hand.
3. Improved accuracy:
E-Prescribing reduces the risk of errors that can occur with manual processes, such as legibility issues or incorrect dosages.
4. Better medication management
With access to a patient's complete medication history, e-Prescribing can help healthcare providers make more informed decisions about the medications they prescribe.
5. Improved access to care
E-Prescribing allows healthcare providers to prescribe medications to patients remotely, improving access to care, especially in rural areas or during times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic.
6. Increased interoperability
E-Prescribing solutions that are integrated with Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and other health information technology can improve the interoperability of health information systems and provide a comprehensive view of a patient's health information.
7. Improved cost-effectiveness
By reducing manual processes and minimizing the risk of errors, e-Prescribing can help to reduce costs for healthcare providers and patients.
8. Enhanced reporting and analytics
E-Prescribing systems can provide valuable data and insights into medication use, helping healthcare providers make more informed decisions about the medications they prescribe.
9. Fulfillment of Regulatory Requirements
Several federal regulations have significantly impacted the growing momentum of e-prescribing in all patient care settings. These include:
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Medicare Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program: This program provides financial incentives to healthcare providers who adopt and use certified e-Prescribing systems.
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The Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA): This Act requires prescription drug products to be tracked from the manufacturer to the patient to help prevent counterfeit, stolen, contaminated, or otherwise harmful drugs from reaching patients.
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The 21st Century Cures Act: This Act includes provisions to advance the use of health information technology, including e-Prescribing, in order to improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of healthcare.
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The Affordable Care Act (ACA): The ACA includes provisions aimed at promoting the use of health information technology, including e-Prescribing, to improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of healthcare.
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The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Final Rule: This rule requires that healthcare providers who participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs adopt and use certified electronic health record (EHR) technology, including e-Prescribing capabilities.
These federal regulations are helping to drive the adoption and use of e-Prescribing in the United States by providing financial incentives, setting standards for security and privacy, and promoting the use of health information technology.
Types of e-prescribing Systems
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Standalone e-Prescribing systems: These are standalone applications designed specifically for the purpose of electronic prescribing.
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Integrated e-Prescribing systems: These are e-Prescribing solutions that are integrated with electronic health records (EHRs) to provide a comprehensive view of a patient's health information and medication history.
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Web-based e-Prescribing systems: These are e-Prescribing solutions that can be accessed via the internet, making it easy for healthcare providers to access patient information and prescribe medications from anywhere.
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Mobile e-Prescribing systems: These are e-Prescribing solutions that can be accessed via a mobile device, making it easy for healthcare providers to prescribe medications while on-the-go.
Choosing the right e-Prescribing solution depends on the needs of the healthcare organization and the preferences of the healthcare provider. Some providers may prefer a standalone e-Prescribing system, while others may prefer a more comprehensive solution that integrates with their EHR system.
Recent Trends in Electronic Prescription
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Increased Adoption:
- According to a recent study by the National ePrescribing Patient Safety Initiative, the use of e-Prescribing in the United States has increased dramatically in recent years, with over 80% of office-based physicians now using e-Prescribing.
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Integration with Electronic Health Records (EHRs):
- According to a report from the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), the majority of EHR systems now have e-Prescribing capabilities integrated into the system.
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Mobile Access:
- A recent survey by Black Book found that over 60% of healthcare providers now use mobile e-Prescribing solutions.
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Increased focus on patient safety:
- According to a report by the Institute of Medicine, e-Prescribing systems can help to reduce the risk of medication errors by up to 50%.
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Increased Use of Telemedicine:
- According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the use of telemedicine increased by over 200% during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Increased use of Interoperability:
- According to a report by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), the use of interoperable health information technology, including e-Prescribing solutions, is becoming increasingly important for improving the quality, safety, and efficiency of healthcare.
In our rapidly changing world of healthcare, e-prescribing capabilities are no longer luxuries. Increasingly, they are the essential tools needed to provide the highest quality of patient care, meet regulatory requirements, and optimize efficiencies within your practice.
If you would like to learn more about how our offerings can meet your e-prescribing needs, contact us today for a free demonstration.
