Convenience and efficiency are vital when it comes to providing quality care for behavioral health and addiction treatment programs. This is where electronic prescriptions come into play. Electronic prescribing, also known as e-prescribing, is a method of electronically generating and transmitting prescriptions from licensed prescribing providers to pharmacies. This technology has transformed the traditional paper-based prescription process, making it more accurate, timely and with clear legible instructions.
If you are considering moving to e-prescribing for medication assisted treatment, it’s essential to understand how electronic prescriptions work. In this article, we will explain the basics of e-prescribing and its benefits.
The Basics of Electronic Prescriptions
Electronic prescriptions are created, signed, and sent using an electronic health record (EHR) system or a stand alone e-prescribing vendor portal. E-prescribing systems connect healthcare providers, pharmacies, and payers to facilitate the secure transmission of prescription information and for proper reimbursements. This process replaces the need for handwritten or printed prescriptions, removing any chances of errors due to illegible handwriting or miscommunication.
The most beneficial process is to prescribe through your EHR. To start the process, a healthcare provider creates an electronic prescription within the EHR system, including all relevant patient information and medication details. The prescription is then securely transmitted to the pharmacy of the patient’s choice, where they can pick up their medication. This process can also be done in real-time, allowing healthcare providers and pharmacies to communicate quickly if there are any issues or changes with the prescription.
Some larger programs have medications delivered for administration or observation at an inpatient facility. Hence, behavioral health practice management software is a valuable tool for streamlining the prescription process and keeping track.
Benefits of Electronic Prescriptions
1. Improved Accuracy
One of the main advantages of electronic prescriptions is improved accuracy. With handwritten prescriptions, there is always a risk of errors due to illegible handwriting or incorrect dosage information. Electronic prescribing eliminates this risk by ensuring that all prescription information is typed and legible, reducing medication errors.
2. Efficient Medication Management
Electronic prescriptions also make medication management more efficient for both healthcare providers and patients. With e-prescribing, healthcare providers can easily access a patient’s medication history, including current and previous prescriptions. This information helps them make informed decisions when prescribing new medication or adjusting dosage. State Prescription Drug Management Programs can easily be accessed by DEA licensed prescribers to better assess a patient’s use of controlled substances within a state or bordering states.
3. Cost Savings
Another benefit of electronic prescriptions is cost savings for both healthcare providers and patients. With e-prescribing, there is no need for paper, printing, or faxing of prescriptions, reducing administrative costs. Patients can also save money on transportation costs and time spent waiting in line at the pharmacy since their medication can be delivered to their doorstep through bulk mail order pharmacies.
4. Increased Security and Privacy
E-prescribing systems use secure networks to transmit prescription information, ensuring patient data is kept confidential. This process also reduces the risk of fraud or tampering with prescriptions, protecting both patients and healthcare providers. Hence, there are many reasons why behavioral healthcare doctors should integrate e-prescribing within their EHR. Strict licensing procedures and DEA identity proofing protects the system from fraud.
How Does E-Prescribing Work?
E-prescribing works by following a set of standards and regulations set by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), if controlled substances, and the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP). These standards ensure that all electronic prescriptions are secure, accurate, and legally valid. E-prescriptions must also comply with HIPAA guidelines to protect patient privacy.
In addition to these standards, healthcare providers and pharmacies must also use certified EHR systems to transmit electronic prescriptions. This means that the software has been thoroughly tested and meets all necessary security and privacy requirements. As a result, healthcare providers can be confident that their electronic prescriptions are secure and follow all regulations.
Wrapping Up
We hope this article has shed some light on the benefits and workings of electronic prescribing in behavioral health programs. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for healthcare providers to adapt and integrate systems like e-prescribing into their program management. With AZZLY®️, you can have the peace of mind that your EHR, patient management, and revenue cycle management needs are all taken care of in one comprehensive platform. Our cloud-based solution is secure, reliable, and user-friendly for mental health and substance use treatment programs.
Plus, with dedicated training and support from our team of experts, transitioning to AZZLY Rize™️ is a stress-free experience. So don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our Solution Consultants today or contact us at hello@azzly.com or (772) 567-0206 for more information. Want pricing? Visit our Easy Start Plan to get a quick, self-guided cost estimate in minutes! Take the first step towards streamlining your organization and providing better care for your patients with AZZLY Rize™️.