What does EPCS mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Electronic prescribing for controlled substances (EPCS) is a system that enables prescribers to electronically prescribe and transmit prescriptions for drugs listed under the Controlled Substances Act. This system helps to improve the safety, efficiency, and accuracy of prescribing while reducing prescription fraud and abuse.

Generally, EPCS offers improved patient safety, greater convenience for patients, improved continuity of care and convenience for prescribers. It increases patient access to necessary medications, reduces fraudulent prescription writing and abuse, simplifies the filling process at pharmacies, and provides vital additional information about a medication's therapeutic alternatives or drug interactions.

The EPC system consists of two parts - a secure electronic communications link typically between a healthcare provider's clinical management software system and an Internet service provider (ISP), as well as a Web-based interface provided by the ISP that serves as a repository of individual patient records. When an authorized healthcare provider is ready to write a controlled substance prescription, they first use their clinical management software to create an "electronic signature" which authenticates them as the prescriber of record. This signature is then transmitted over the secure communication link to the ISP where it is securely stored in the patient's individual record along with other pertinent data such as dosage information or directions for use.

Currently only medical doctors who have registered with an approved company can access or use this electronic prescribing system. Also health care providers licensed in distribution centers authorized by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) may also be issued access codes from specific internet gateways mandated by DEA law.

Yes! If your doctor does not utilize EPCS yet, you may obtain your medicine through traditional paper prescriptions written on special security paper meant for controlled substances prescribed in all 50 states.

No! Although you may receive some prescriptions electronically via email or text message through your doctor's office using EPCS technology, you will still have the option of receiving a traditional paper prescription printed on special security paper meant for controlled substances when prescribed in all 50 states.

Absolutely! The security components used in developing these systems incorporate industry best practices such as encryption methods up to 256-bit plus multiple layers of authentication which protect against identity theft and unauthorized users gaining access to sensitive patient data or medications.