The Future of E-Prescribing

A recent study published in Health Affairs evaluated ongoing efforts to integrate electronic prescribing. While the potential safety benefits and increased efficiency of e-prescribing have been documented, the practical considerations of using such systems is an important consideration to increase participation.

A phone interview survey of administrators, physician-users, and other system users assessed the use of e-prescribing in the outpatient setting. According to data from 2004-2005, less than one-quarter of physician practices have systems in place to utilize e-prescribing.

The survey noted enthusiasm for e-prescribing capabilities in general. However, respondents also noted concerns about practical features of systems that may limit use. For example, systems in place among those surveyed had limited capabilities to assess drugs for possible interactions with other medications or allergic considerations. Half of the clinicians participating in the survey didn’t have access to formulary information. Those who did have formulary information noted such was limited and often not available for all patients.

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