Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2014
Abstract
Introduction: Electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) is an important part of the nation’s push to create an electronically accessible national health system. E-prescribing allows providers to send prescriptions electronically to the pharmacy and can be stand-alone systems or part of an integrated electronic health record system.
Methodology: The methodology for this study was a literature review. Electronic databases accessed include EBSCOhost, PubMED, and Google Scholar. Additionally, government websites and a semi-structured interview were used. A total of 39 sources were referenced for the review.
Results: The results of the literature review demonstrated that e-prescribing reduces prescribing errors, increases efficiency, and helps save on healthcare costs. However, there are still significant barriers to implementation.
Discussion: The benefits that come with using e-prescribing are numerous. While there are still barriers that prevent many prescribers from implementing e-prescribing systems, incentives and improved patient safety will help increase its utilization.
Conclusion: E-prescribing has the potential to increase patient safety and efficiency of care. This supports our hypothesis that e-prescribing has led to improved patient care through meaningful use. More than just a convenient way to send prescriptions, e-prescribing allows prescribers to prescribe safely and cost effectively, and is likely to continue to grow in the future.
Recommended Citation
Engelbert, K., Porterfield, A., Willis, W., & Coustasse, A. (2014, March). Electronic prescribing and its implementation in the United States. In proceedings of the Business and Health Administration Association Annual Conference 2014, Chicago, IL.
Included in
Business Administration, Management, and Operations Commons, Health and Medical Administration Commons, Medical Sciences Commons
Comments
This paper was presented in the Pharmaceutical Healthcare Issues track at the BHAA annual conference in Chicago, IL. Copyright © 2014 Business and Health Administration Association. Printed with permission. All rights reserved.