Regional communities embracing ePrescriptions

Regional Western Australians are taking advantage of the safety and convenience of electronic prescriptions, with more than three-quarters of eligible patients opting in to receive their prescription via SMS or email since the rollout commenced six months ago.

Electronic prescriptions, or eScripts, are digital versions of standard paper prescriptions and are sent directly to the patient via email or SMS. Using the eMedication app, they are safe, secure and make it easier to keep track of scripts and repeats. Patients can even choose to have their eScripts sent straight to their pharmacy.

Importantly, eScripts mean there is no need to spend extra time visiting a health service just to collect scripts or waiting for them to arrive in the post.

This latest WA Country Health Service (WACHS) innovation has seen more than 1,900 eScripts (as of 2 June 2023) dispensed to country patients across all seven regions for emergency, inpatient, day procedure and outpatient services.

Electronic prescriptions are also proving a win for the planet, with figures at the end of May 2023 indicating almost 8,000 pieces of paper have been saved from landfill.

Chief Pharmacist Adam Hort said it was exciting to be able to offer the safe, secure and convenient digital option for country residents.

“Electronic prescriptions have the potential to significantly improve life for regional residents by reducing non-essential travel and dependence on the postal system,” Mr Hort said.

“They are also a step forward for improving patient safety by reducing preventable issues such as adverse medication events and improving communication between doctor, patient and pharmacist.”

If you haven’t yet been offered eScripts and would like to find out how, ask your treating clinician at your next appointment.