As the Texas Medical Association recently reported, prescriptions for all controlled substances must be filed electronically beginning Jan. 1.
However, prescribers who demonstrate financial or technical hardships, or other exceptional circumstances, can apply for a waiver that, if approved, will grant a one-year delay.
There also are several exceptions to the e-prescribing mandate that do not require a waiver, including a temporary technological or electronic failure, certain emergencies, or when a physician or physician’s delegate issues a prescription to be dispensed by an out-of-state pharmacy.
More information on these waivers and exceptions, and a list of frequently asked questions are available on TMB’s website. You can also access the waiver form through your MyTMB account.
TMB’s final rule on electronic prescribing of controlled substances (EPCS) will be published in the Texas Register on Friday.
Note that all schedules have prescriptions that fall into the controlled-substance category and that can be reviewed on the Drug Enforcement Administration’s list of controlled substances
Your electronic health records (EHR) vendor likely has the option available and can help you get set up.
If you do not use an EHR, or if your vendor does not have EPCS available, stand-alone options are available. You can expect to pay about $75 per month per physician for the stand-alone option.
To search stand-alone certified EPCS software, go to the Surescripts page for prescriber software and “focus your search” by choosing standalone eRx.
If you have questions about EPCS, contact TMA’s Health Information Technology Department at (800) 880-5720 or via email.
Last Updated On
December 10, 2021
Originally Published On
December 22, 2020