Eprescribing software describes a type of computer program which is used to facilitate the prescription and dispensing of medications. The software is designed to be used by both the prescribing doctor and the pharmacy that will be filling the order. Both parties are in communication through a secure connection, most often using a larger intermediary pharmacy network.
From the perspective of a doctor, eprescribing software can be used to enter prescriptions into a system which standardizes the process. Instead of hand writing on a prescription paper, a computer interface is used. In addition, the software includes a database that can help to provide accurate and up to date information about the pharmaceuticals being prescribed.
With an integrated eprescribing system, the medical records of the doctor's patients can be linked and searched. This can eliminate the need for searching through physical files. It also allows the software to check patient information in order to prevent harmful drug interactions.
From the perspective of a pharmacy, eprescribing software can help to streamline many different processes. The connection between the pharmacy and the doctor's office allows the instant transmission of prescription information and inquiries in both directions. By eliminating lengthy phone calls to offices, prescriptions can be filled quickly.
The software also lets physicians directly modify or cancel existing prescriptions at the request of the pharmacy. The software library can generate safety data sheets for customers as well. Pharmacies are, in fact, able to send several different types of inquiries electronically to the prescribing doctor.
Eprescribing software has the advantage of shortening the amount of time that patients have to spend in the doctor's office and pharmacy. The software can transmit requests for additional refills for a customer. The doctor then simply permits or denies the refills as needed. The software protects patients as well by checking for duplicate prescriptions or excessive dosages.
The eprescribing software, when integrated with patient records, can make entering information easier and eliminate new data entry errors. This is achieved by auto-populating fields such as the phone number and address.
An eprescribing software system is also very secure. Patient data travels through encrypted networks and can only be accessed when the doctor or pharmacy verifies their identity or credentials. Eprescribing software offers a modern solution for many traditional problems that have plagued the process of prescribing medications.