Image Based Scripts During Covid has Ended
During Covid provisions were made which allowed pharmacies to dispense image based scripts without the need of obtaining the original scripts. This provision ended 30th September 2022.
Unfortunately many pharmacies are still supplying medications on an image based script without the original copy which not only contravenes the legislation but also creates animosity towards pharmacies who are doing the right thing. Prescribers should be aware of the current legislation and ensure you comply with them to avoid any possible investigation by AHPRA.
Please note image based scripts are not e-scripts! E-scripts do not require originals as they uploaded into the cloud where any pharmacy can download and dispense them with a QR code provided by the patient. Image based scripts are faxed or emailed copies of a traditional script. There seems to be a lot of confusion between the two amongst patients and prescribers.
Currently the legislation allows a pharmacy to dispense and supply an imaged based script before receiving the original copy only if the image based script was supplied directly by the prescriber (not the patient) by email or fax and the prescriber posts the original copy to the pharmacy. If the patient supplies the pharmacy with an image based script by email or fax the pharmacy legally must wait until the original script is received by post or in person before supplying the medication.
We encourage prescribers to email us their patients prescriptions to avoid delays and post us the original scripts. You can contact us for a supply of self addressed pre paid envelopes for you to post us the original scripts.
We understand this is an inconvenience however we must ensure we are practicing within the legislation.
Alternatively we accept e-scripts which we can dispense immediately without any need for the original script.
REF: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/pharmaceutical/Pages/legal-form-prescription.aspx
