Electronic Prescribing for Controlled Substances is the Law. And it Works for You and Your Patients.

By Robert McDermott; President/CEO, iCoreConnect

As of January 1, two electronic prescribing laws are in effect. The first is the Texas law mandating Electronic Prescribing for Controlled Substances (EPCS) required for US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Schedules II through V. The second is the federal mandate requiring electronic prescribing for all controlled substances under Medicare Part D. Both laws help prevent opioid abuse.

Electronic prescribing lets you electronically write, review and send prescriptions directly to the pharmacy. It helps reduce medication errors and adverse drug events, improves formulary adherence by prescribers and increases patient adherence to prescription medications.

Electronic prescribing provides better protection for you and your patients. As a provider, you complete a one-time, identity proofing process to prescribe controlled substances. Identity proofing prevents someone from impersonating you to illegally write scripts for controlled substances. Another unique security element is the multi-factor (two or more steps) user authentication required each time you e-Prescribe a controlled substance. Identity proofing and two-factor authentication add layers of protection for all involved.

Texas already requires patient prescription history checks through the Texas PMP AWARxE prescription monitoring program. Electronic prescribing software can integrate directly with the PMP AWARxE, making that additional security step as simple as a few clicks.

These mandates also offer you the chance to streamline the way you work. e-Prescribing eliminates prescribing with pad, phone and fax. Most e-Prescribing software is for ALL medications, including controlled substances. Cloud-based e-Prescribing software gives you flexibility to e-Prescribe anywhere. You can use your desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone to care for your patients with ease and efficiency. And most e-Prescribing software is designed for your team to still prepare each prescription for you to review and send directly to the pharmacy

Take this opportunity to compliantly e-Prescribe all medications, continually improve patient care and quickly take care of business.