New York now requires physicians send electronic prescriptions directly to pharmacies, according to 13 WIBW.
Here are five points:
1. The new mandate is intended to reduce prescription painkiller abuse as well as decrease errors handwritten prescriptions cause.
2. New York is the first state to implement penalties if physicians don't adhere to e-prescribing.
3. If they fail to e-prescribe, physicians may be fined, lose their license or face jail time.
4. The mandate is a part of the initiative called Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing.
5. The new rule allows a few exceptions for medical emergencies and nursing homes.