How EMR Software and Electronic Prescriptions Work Together - By: Jamie Hanson

EMR Software and electronic prescriptions are beneficial to doctors and patient's alike. When the prescriber can provide the prescription electronically to the pharmacy discrepancies are reduced significantly and the quality of patient care goes sky high. There is little room for error when the prescription is raised electronically and the patient is highly benefited.

Presently, e-prescriptions via EMR software are not used as often as they should be. Each year there are approximately 1.5 billion prescriptions in the United States. However, in 2007 only 2% of those prescriptions were e-prescribed as per the Gorman Health Group for Pharmaceutical Care Management Association study. This study determined that there are tens of thousands of providers currently using e-prescriptions, but it is a small amount compared to the number of health care professionals who should be taking advantage of this technology. The study also confirmed that by 2017 more than 80% of prescriptions in the United States is going to be e-prescribed. As a result, millions of adverse drug effects will not occur in patients. In 2008 the number of prescriptions sent electronically has leaped to 7%, according to Sure Scripts. The use of e-prescription is on the rise and is expected to grow more.

For example, there are thousands of people that will die as a result of a prescription error usually due to the prescription being illegible. There are other problems that occur and can cause prescription errors. These include not having records for previous medications, not providing enough information on drug/drug or drug/allergy interactions, as well as doctors and pharmacists not working together.

Electronic medical prescriptions (also known as e-prescriptions or e-prescribing) reduce many different potential problems. Medical errors are minimized significantly, patient safety and quality of care are improved, paperwork is eradicated, patients' medical histories can be racked, saves time, increases efficiency, and many other advantages.

Many potential users hesitate for a changeover even though they know its benefits. As a result, providers who use this EMR software will begin to receive EMR incentive payments from Medicare through 2014. The incentives provided for its use will gradually reduce by 2013. The goal is to inspire healthcare providers to go ahead and make the alteration now, rather than later.

About the Author

EHR software helps improve medical practice efficiency and increase focus on patient care. EHR software systems are now considered a necessity by most doctors and hospitals

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Jamie-Hanson/34129

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