Electronic Prescriptions or e-scripts as they are more commonly known are now available at Pharmacist Advice.* E-scripts are an alternative to paper prescriptions and are a convenient way to access your medications.
You can still choose to receive a paper prescription however an e-script allows you to access your prescriptions from your mobile phone or computer at any time.
We also offer a handy smartphone app which you can use to organise your electronic prescriptions and order them in advance of arriving at the pharmacy. Ask our Pharmacist about how you can get started.*
Electronic prescriptions are important because it: [1]
- provides greater choice for patients
- improves efficiency in prescribing and dispensing medications
- removes the need for handling and storing a physical paper prescription
- supports digital health services such as telehealth services to ensure continuity of patient care
- provides an opportunity to protect community members and healthcare providers from exposure to infectious diseases
- maintains patient privacy and integrity of personal information
Still have some questions?
Please find Frequently Asked Questions below: [2]
Q: How do I get my electronic prescription?
When your doctor writes your electronic prescription, they will send you a ‘Token’ which is an electronic message sent to your mobile phone or computer.
Q: Is the electronic prescription system secure?
Electronic prescriptions must meet a high level of privacy and security. Your prescription is protected and cannot be accessed by anyone until it is unlocked at your pharmacy when you give them your token.
Q: If I get an electronic prescription, do I then need to get one every time I need a prescription?
No, the choice of whether you get an electronic or a paper prescription is always yours.
Q: If I get an electronic prescription will the repeats also be electronic?
Yes, all repeats issued with the initial electronic prescription will also be electronic. Any repeats will have new tokens issued once the prescription is dispensed. You will need to keep the new token for the next time you need the medicine.
Q: Will I get a separate token for each medicine I am prescribed?
Yes, you will get a separate token for each medicine you are prescribed. If you have repeats on your prescription, your pharmacy will send you a new token for your next repeat. You will need to give the new token to the Pharmacist when it is time to get your medicine.
Q: How do I know the SMS or email is not a scam?
You can check that you have received your token before you leave the doctor’s office or finish your telehealth consultation, so you know it is from your doctor.
Q: What happens if I lose my token?
If you lose your token, you will need to ask your doctor to cancel the electronic prescription and issue a new one. The doctor will send you a new token.
Q: How do I get my medicines?
You can go to the pharmacy and they will use your token with the barcode to unlock the electronic prescription and supply your medicines.
Contact your local GP to find out if they offer this service or speak to one of our Pharmacists in store.
*Only available at participating stores. See in store for further details.
1 https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/electronic-prescribing
2 https://www.digitalhealth.gov.au/get-started-with-digital-health/electronic-prescriptions