Electronic prescriptions, or ‘e-scripts’, are safe and convenient alternatives to paper ones.
Prescribers can send them to patients using email or SMS, or they can use an Active Script List (ASL).
ASLs are consolidated, secure lists of each patient’s active prescriptions that remove the need to track separate text messages or emails.
ASLs can be particularly beneficial for patients who:
- manage multiple prescriptions
- frequently misplace emails or SMS messages
- experience changes to their mobile number or email address.
How does it work in practice?
To set up an ASL, a GP or other prescriber needs to first gain patient consent.
This requires patient registration. To do this the patient must:
- visit a participating local pharmacy
- provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s licence
- confirm activation via SMS
The patient’s GP can then select the ASL option in their clinical software. (Some software suites list use the terms MySL or MSL instead.)
Prescriptions sent to the ASL can be accessed by any participating pharmacy, enabling medicines to be dispensed without an electronic or paper script.
ASLs improve medication continuity and safety, particularly for patients with complex needs, and reduce administrative burdens for the practice.
For more information see these resources:
- Electronic prescriptions | Australian Digital Health Agency
- Webinar for health care providers | Australian Digital Health Agency
- Electronic prescribing | North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network
Our Primary Care Improvement Team is here to help you. You can request a visit, call us on (03) 9347 1188 or email primarycare@nwmphn.org.au for further information and support.
