Electronic prescribing momentum continues to build
Published 24 February 2020
Electronic prescribing provides an option for prescribers and their patients to have a digital prescription as an alternative to a paper-based one.
Following the October 2019 publication of the electronic prescribing technical framework (solution architecture, conformance profile, and conformance assessment scheme) momentum continues to build.
In the December issue of Share, the Agency discussed the extensive work that had been done throughout 2019 to develop the technical framework in collaboration with industry, health professionals, consumers and governments. At the same time, the Department of Health made changes to Commonwealth PBS regulations to recognise an electronic prescription as an alternative to a paper prescription and worked with states and territories to ensure amendments are aligned across Commonwealth, state and territory legislation.
Software developers are now incorporating the new electronic prescribing requirements into their prescribing, dispensing and app software to enable electronic prescribing functionality. The Agency’s developer centre website is continually updated with more information and resources, including recordings of our electronic prescribing webinars that were posted at the end of last year. Our fact sheet is an excellent initial reference source for those wanting to understand more about electronic prescribing and what it may mean for you.
Developing a national change and adoption plan
To understand how best to support health professionals and consumers in the future transition to electronic prescriptions, the Agency has again established an external working group of industry, health professional peak bodies, consumers and government.
The National Change and Adoption working group (NCAwg) has already met twice and advice from the group has supported our liaison with peak bodies.
Through NCAwg, the Agency has undertaken direct communication and change management with health professionals who will be generating and dispensing electronic prescriptions, as well as to the consumers who will be using them.
To find out more, please visit the Australian Digital Health Agency booth at the upcoming APP 2020 Conference in March.