Senators Demonstrate Support For Electronic Prescribing - National Association Of Chain Drug Stores

Main Category: IT / Internet / E-mail
Also Included In: Pharmacy / Pharmacist
Article Date: 19 Dec 2007 - 2:00 PDT

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The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) applauded nineteen Senators who signed a letter to United States Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey in support of electronic prescribing. The letter outlines the benefits of e-prescribing and urges the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to issue regulations for the electronic prescription of controlled substances (EPCS).

DEA currently prohibits electronic prescription of controlled substances.

"DEA regulations permitting EPCS have been delayed for years, inhibiting wider uptake of e-prescribing, and postponing the realization of this technology's benefits," the letter states. "It is our belief that both the health care and law enforcement communities would benefit greatly from a secure EPCS system, and that technological solutions are at hand. We urge your prompt attention to this matter, and request that DEA issue regulations for EPCS as quickly as possible."

NACDS submitted a statement advocating the use of EPCS for a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing chaired by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) on December 4. NACDS supports e-prescribing as a way to improve the quality, safety and efficiency of the overall prescribing process.

"E-prescribing has the potential to help law enforcement reduce drug abuse and diversion," said NACDS President and CEO Steven C. Anderson, IOM, CAE. "We applaud these Senators for their support of e-prescribing and thank Senator Whitehouse for his leadership on this issue."

National Association of Chain Drug Stores