ePrescribing is Here to Stay—The Latest States to Make the Switch

In 2003, electronic prescribing (ePrescribing) was introduced as a cheaper, more convenient, and safer way to prescribe medication. It has become an integral part in providing quality care and now several states including Delaware, Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, and New York have implemented ePrescribe mandates. California and Michigan are next.

So, what does this mean for my practice?

Starting October 1, 2021, for Michigan and January 1, 2022, for California, optometrists, ophthalmologists and other prescribers will be required to send all medication prescriptions electronically. If your practice is currently using paper medication prescriptions, they will no longer meet the Michigan and California Pharmacy Law requirements. 

As the eye care industry continues to evolve, we are seeing a shift from traditional paper workflows to smart technology and automation. Whether you are practicing in a state immediately affected by this new mandate or not, we recommend you check your state guidelines. You may need to adjust your office procedures or secure new software in order to comply with these new ePrescribe mandates soon.  

How do I comply with ePrescribe mandates using Eyefinity Encompass™?

We understand how important regulatory compliance is to you and your patients. That’s why Eyefinity Encompass has built-in ePrescribe capabilities to help you effortlessly comply with these new mandates. With Eyefinity Encompass and a dedicated iPad app, you can effectively manage patients’ prescriptions anywhere, anytime, on any device connected to the internet. Already an Eyefinity Encompass user? Click here to learn more.

Why should I prescribe medication electronically?

While it is important for regulatory compliance, ePrescribing also has a few extra benefits for optometry practices:

• Securely access patient medication history and receive alerts for potential drug interactions and allergies the patient may have, in real time.
• Save patients money with the ability to find and suggest available coupons, while increasing the transparency they have into their out-of-pocket cost.  
• Make the most informed decisions for your patient’s treatment plan with the ability to see what other providers are prescribing with Grand Rounds Medication Assist. 
• Take the guesswork out of handwritten prescriptions, reducing potential errors and the need for prescription clarifications at the pharmacy.

We understand staying on top of the latest regulations affecting the eyecare industry is no easy feat. That’s why with Eyefinity Encompass you can do everything listed above and more, so you can easily comply without any disruptions to your workflow.  

Interested in Eyefinity Encompass? Find out more.