Electronic prescriptions trialled in Darwin

In an effort to combat prescription fraud and dispensing errors, doctors in Darwin are taking part in a trial study to issue patient’s prescriptions electronically.

In an effort to combat prescription fraud and dispensing errors, doctors in Darwin are taking part in a trial study to issue patient’s prescriptions electronically.

Pharmacists will be able to download the script – that comes complete with an encrypted signature and barcode – thus avoiding the issue of deciphering a doctor’s handwriting and ensuring the correct medications were delivered to the patient.

Speaking with the Australian, Dr Katekat of the Top End Division of General Practice said the move “represents a significant step forward in modernising prescribing in Australia”.

“GPs welcome this advancement that delivers improvements in quality and safety in prescribing and medication management.”

Two Darwin pharmacies are currently taking part in the trial with hopes that the system will eventually roll out nationwide.

Source: The Australian IT