How to proceed if someone cannot pick up their e-prescription in person?

The introduction of electronic prescriptions in healthcare has brought significant changes, particularly in the areas of prescribing and dispensing medications. The new system aims to simplify the procurement of medications for patients and reduce paper-based administration. Among the advantages of digitalization is that patients no longer need to carry paper prescriptions with them, as electronically stored prescriptions are accessible at any time.

However, it is important for patients to be aware of the necessary steps and requirements when obtaining medications. Understanding the management of electronic prescriptions and prescription confirmations is crucial, especially for those who cannot personally collect their medications due to accidents or illnesses. Below, we provide a detailed overview of how the e-prescription system works and what to know about obtaining medications.

How Electronic Prescriptions Work

An electronic prescription, or e-prescription, is a digital format that allows for the online prescribing and dispensing of medications. Doctors upload patients’ prescriptions through the EESZT (Electronic Health Service Space) system during treatment. These prescriptions contain all the necessary data that can also be found on traditional paper prescriptions. One of the biggest advantages of the e-prescription is that patients can easily collect their medications without a paper-based prescription confirmation, as long as they have a valid identification document.

During the dispensing process, pharmacies also access prescriptions through the EESZT system, enabling them to quickly and efficiently provide the necessary medications. The operation of the system allows patients easier access to medications, thereby reducing waiting times and paper-based administration.

It is important to note that in addition to an identification card, a TAJ card may also be required for obtaining medications, especially for older types of identification cards. For new types of identification documents, a PIN code is sufficient, as these already contain the TAJ data. This solution allows patients to easily and quickly access the necessary medications without always having to carry paper confirmations.

Prescription Confirmation: When and Who Needs It?

The role of the prescription confirmation is particularly important for patients who cannot personally collect their medications. The system changed in 2020, and for children under 14, it is mandatory to issue a prescription confirmation. This means that for parents or guardians, it simplifies the medication collection process, as they can pick up medications on behalf of the children.

Additionally, it is advisable for any patient planning to delegate the collection of medications to ask their doctor to issue a prescription confirmation. This can be particularly important for those receiving inpatient care or residents of nursing homes who do not go out and are represented by others during the medication collection. With the prescription confirmation in hand, the authorized person can easily access the medications, as their signature confirms the receipt of the medication.

Thus, the issuance of prescription confirmations plays a key role in the procurement of medications, allowing patients to access the necessary products flexibly and conveniently.

What to Do If You Receive a Paper Prescription?

Although the electronic prescription system is becoming increasingly widespread, there may be instances where a doctor issues a paper prescription. In such cases, if the electronic system is not functioning or the doctor writes a handwritten prescription, presenting the paper prescription is essential to obtain medications. Therefore, it is important for patients to always carry the necessary documents with them, especially if they know they will need to collect their medication.

At the pharmacy, the dispensing of medications is based on paper prescriptions, and if the patient goes in person to collect the medication, presenting the prescription is essential. The use of traditional prescriptions will not disappear, and patients must ensure they always have the necessary documents.

Furthermore, it is important to emphasize that the introduction of electronic prescriptions does not replace medical visits. Many mistakenly believe that the electronic system allows for skipping visits to the doctor. The e-prescription merely simplifies the administration of healthcare services, but medical examinations remain essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Electronic prescriptions and prescription confirmations have opened a new world for obtaining medications, but patients must consciously manage the advantages and limitations of the system. With the right information, they can navigate the medication collection process more easily, ensuring the preservation of their health.