Vermont final state to adopt e-Rx for pain drugs

Last week, Vermont enacted a policy to allow for electronic prescribing of controlled substances such as oxycodone, hydrocodone and morphine—the final state in the nation to do so. One benefit is the anticipated reduction in bogus paper-and-pen prescriptions.

“Throwing out the prescription pad and opting for an electronic process makes it easier for patients to get the medications they need while helping to prevent fraud and abuse,” said Tom Skelton, CEO of Surescripts, a pharmacy benefit manager, in a statement.

Earlier in August, the White House announced funding for its High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program that combines law enforcement and public health resources to help fight painkiller abuse, including the development of training for local law enforcement and first responders.

According to MedCity News, only about 4 percent of prescribers nationwide are writing e-prescriptions for controlled substances.