Pharmacy Daily | No increase in errors with e-Scripts

PHARMACISTS' indemnity insurer, Pharmaceutical Defence Limited (PDL) is urging pharmacists to be vigilant when dispensing electronic prescriptions, particularly around any changes to workflow.

In a practice alert issued yesterday, PDL confirmed dispensing of e-scripts is covered under the PDL Master Policy, "as these prescriptions are treated by the policy in a similar manner to paper prescriptions".

The insurer also reported that "at this time, PDL has not seen an increase in errors associated with e-scripts".

However, PDL warned that "any change or interruption to normal prescription workflow may lead to errors so the introduction of e-script processing should be carefully considered".

"Extra monitors or devices will be necessary for efficient workflow, especially for unimpeded checking of the dispensed item against the electronic version of the prescription," the alert said.

"The checking of prescriptions awaiting collection is an aspect of the supply process that needs to be considered.

"Presently, medicines awaiting collection are usually placed in a basket along with the paper prescription so a pharmacist can double-check and counsel before handing out the medication.

"Without a hard copy to refer to, an easily accessible monitor or screen should be available to check the dispensed medicines against the electronic version of the prescription.

"The patient's details as they appear on a paper prescription will not be available to confirm the patient's identity so other steps must be taken to ensure the medicine is supplied to the correct patient."

PDL urged pharmacists to review the relevant State or Territory legislation and local Health Department websites to ensure they understand the integration of e-scripts into local regulations.

Pharmacists were also reminded that they should never assume that all data has been accurately transferred as there may be instances where a portion of the e-script has been incorrectly transcribed into the dispensing program.