Everything You Need to Know About Getting an eScript in Australia
Medically Reviewed by Dr Ali Zavery
Last updated on 11.06.2024
Introduction to eScripts
An eScript, or electronic prescription, is a digital alternative to traditional paper prescriptions in Australia. Introduced to enhance convenience and safety, eScripts can be received via SMS or email from your doctor and are then presented at pharmacies to obtain medications.
How eScripts work
During your consultation, if you opt for an eScript, your doctor will send you a digital token via SMS or email. This token contains a unique QR code, which serves as your prescription. At the pharmacy, the pharmacist scans the token to access and dispense your medication. You’ll receive a separate token for each prescribed medication
Benefits of using eScripts
The primary advantages of eScripts include:
- Convenience: Easily obtain prescriptions without physical paperwork, especially useful if you travel or cannot visit the clinic in person.
- Safety: Reduces the risk of lost or damaged prescriptions and minimizes prescription errors.
- Efficiency: Streamlines the process of getting your medicine, as you can forward your token directly to the pharmacy, which can prepare your medication for pickup or delivery.
Managing eScripts
For those managing multiple medications, an Active Script List (ASL) can be particularly useful. An ASL consolidates all your eScripts in one digital list, accessible by any participating pharmacy once you provide consent. This system is helpful for keeping track of your medications and ensuring you do not miss any doses’
Setting up and using an ASL
To set up an ASL, visit your pharmacy with identification, and ask to register. Once set up, all your eScripts will be automatically added to your ASL. When you need your medication, simply authorize the pharmacy to access your list and dispense your medicines.
How to obtain eScripts
To start receiving eScripts, you need to have a valid Medicare number.
- Request an electronic prescription during your doctor’s visit.
- Ensure your doctor has your correct contact phone or email details to send the token.
- Use the token at any participating pharmacy by presenting it or forwarding it directly to the pharmacy (Health Direct).
What if the eScript does not come through to my phone or email as expected?
First of all, check with the doctor that they have your correct details- a typo on your phone number or email can create this problem. Sometimes there might have been an issue with internet/ wi-fi connection at the moment the eScript was sent, and it might take a few minutes to come through to you.
If it still does not arrive, the doctor can double check on their side to see if there was an issue with sending it (this can happen if there is a problem with a person’s Medicare details or “IHI” number (individual health identifier). If it’s still not clear why it has not gone through, the doctor may try to “re-send” it to you, and see if that works. Failing that, the doctor may be able to give you a paper prescription for the time being, while the issue is being figured out.
Support and resources
If you’re new to eScripts or need assistance, healthcare providers and pharmacists are well-equipped to guide you through the process. Additionally, detailed resources and support can be found through Healthdirect’s website on electronic prescriptions and the Australian Digital Health Agency.
eScripts represent a significant step forward in the digital management of healthcare in Australia, combining technology with convenience to enhance patient care and medication management.
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