Physicians and pharmacists call for more rapid implementation of e-prescribing in Canada

Abstract

Canada should aim to have all prescriptions in the country created, signed and transmitted electronically by 2015, according to a joint statement released by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) on May 21, 2013. The statement acknowledges that achieving this vision poses challenges, but says efforts must be made because of the extensive potential benefits to patients, providers and the health care system. These benefits will be realized when e-prescribing is integrated with Drug Information Systems (DIS) currently in place or being developed in various jurisdictions, say the 2 associations. The CMA and CPhA have laid out a 5-point plan for achieving full e-prescribing functionality by 2015. It includes the need for the provinces and Canada Health Infoway to complete electronic connectivity requirements among points of care, and for provinces, territories and regulatory bodies to develop regulatory frameworks to facilitate and govern clinicians’ use of electronic prescribing. The full e-prescribing joint statement is available at www.pharmacists.ca and www.cma.ca.