The Hidden Downside to Electronic Prescriptions

The use of e-prescriptions is a growing trend for physicians. From the introduction of e-prescriptions in 2006, the prevalence of this process has increased to over 70% of all physicians [1].  E-prescribing allows prescribers to electronically send patients’ prescription information to pharmacy computers.  This process has reduced the amount of paperwork and any errors associated with reliance on handwritten prescriptions, which increases the safety and quality of the prescription process.

E-prescribing has made its way into all 50 states and has even become mandatory in states such as Minnesota and New York.

“When it works, it’s seamless,” says New York County Medical Society President Dr. Michael T. Goldstein, an ophthalmologist who issues many prescriptions electronically himself. “But there are circumstances where it doesn’t work, and patients suffer.”

“It’s also harder for patients to shop around for medication deals when a script is in a pharmacy’s system instead of in hand”, says Dr. Joseph R. Maldonado, president of the Medical Society of the State of New York.

There is a barrier to online pharmacies, which require a written prescription to fill prescription medication orders.  Learn how to get a paper prescription when e-Prescribing is mandatory.

References:

http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/east/2016/03/21/402515.htm

https://www.healthit.gov/sites/default/files/oncdatabriefe-prescribingincreases2014.pdf