In the relatively short time that ePrescribing has been around, it has already made a significant impact on healthcare, saving physicians and pharmacists time while reducing the risk of errors. However, challenges still persist, according to a new study from the Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research.

The agency reported in the latest issue of the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association that ePrescribing has addressed issues concerning missed drug interactions and illegible physician handwriting, and it has also sped up the pace at which prescriptions are order and filled. This ensures that patients get the right medication at the right time, which improves quality.

However, the survey of 114 healthcare providers revealed that technical issues persist. Specifically, connectivity between doctors' offices and pharmacies can pose challenges. Still, the researchers cited ePrescribing as a hugely positive step for the healthcare industry.

"Physicians and pharmacies have come a long way in their use of e-prescribing, and that's a very positive trend for safer patient care and improved efficiency," said AHRQ director Carolyn M. Clancy. "This study identifies issues that need attention to improve ePrescribing for physicians, pharmacies, and patients."