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e-Prescribing

About E-Prescribing

E-prescribing is the use of electronic tools to prescribe drug prescriptions. E-prescribing tools can include both software programs, as well as hardware like personal computers, handheld and wireless devices, and touch screens. E-prescribing is one of the integral steps to achieving broad deployment of the EHR. Other issues related to this topic area include, but are not limited to, pharmacy automation, medication compliance, pharmacy databases, CPOE and adverse drug events (ADE).

Today, prescribers make their drug-prescribing decisions using whatever information is available to them, then they give a handwritten prescription on paper to the patient or fax it to the dispenser or pharmacy. Once the prescription reaches the pharmacy, tasks become somewhat more automated. Through electronic claims, eligibility, and benefits submission, the dispensing pharmacist may learn about contraindications, the need for prior authorization, or lower cost alternatives. The dispenser then contacts the prescriber by phone for approval of changes, refills, or renewals.

Visit the HIMSS E-Prescribing Wiki to learn more about e-prescribing state incentives,

New! Download and listen to the e-Prescribing episode of the HIMSS Physician Podcast series:

  • Complexities of e-Prescribing: Physician and Pharmacist Viewpoints
    Patricia Hale, MD, PhD, Deputy Director, Office of Health Information Technology Transformation New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY and Mr. Kevin Marvin, RPh, Principal, Kevin Marvin Consulting LLC, Burlington, VT discuss e-Prescribing from several perspectives including physician, pharmacist and patient.
    Download and listen

Tools & Resources

E-Prescribing Incentive Program Comparison - 04/05/2011

CMS Announces 2011 Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program Final Rule - 09/27/2011

What You Need to Know About the MIPPA 2011 Final Ruling - 09/27/2011

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