Measure:
More than 40 percent of all permissible prescriptions written by the eligible professional are transmitted electronically using certified EHR technology.
Clinical Importance
Electronic prescribing (e-Prescribing or eRx) is a fast, efficient way to write/re-order and transmit prescriptions. e-Rx has pre-set fields so all the required information for prescriptions are entered and automatically stored in the patient’s record for easy review during follow-up visits or for transitions to other providers. e-Prescribing increases overall patient satisfaction because the prescriptions can be automatically transmitted to a pharmacy of preference. Using an electronic system also provides guided dose algorithms to assist providers. Providers also have the opportunity to query a formulary to ensure the drug selected is covered by the patient’s health plan to assist in reducing costs to the patient.
Lessons from the Field
When implementing an electronic prescribing solution, accepting prescription refill requests in multiple forms (by telephone, fax, etc.) requires an extensive amount of coordination between staff members. Implementers in the field have found it effective to designate one staff member to be responsible for coordinating the transmission of electronic prescription refills. One central repository for all prescription refill requests can reduce the need for extensive synchronization between all staff members.