Preparing for the CMS e-prescribing Incentive ProgramElectronic prescribing (e-prescribing) is the transmission of prescription or prescription-related information through electronic media. E-prescribing takes place between a prescriber, dispenser, pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), or health plan. It can take place directly or through an intermediary (like an e-prescribing network). The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) authorized the Medicare E-prescribing Incentive Program beginning in 2009 to promote adoption and use of e-prescribing systems.
With e-prescribing, health care professionals can electronically transmit both new prescriptions and responses to renewal requests to a pharmacy without having to write or fax the prescription. E-prescribing can save time, enhance office and pharmacy productivity, and improve patient safety and quality of care.
If you’re an eligible professional and you’re interested in earning incentives from Medicare for using e-prescribing technology, take the time to read this guide. It explains the e-prescribing incentive and provides other resources for more comprehensive guidance.
Note these resources:
- Specifications for the e-prescribing Incentive Program
- Electronic Prescribing Incentive Fact Sheet
- Medicare’s Practical Guide to the E-prescribing Incentive Program
In general you will need to use one of the codes listed below:
Prescriptions Generated via Qualified E-prescribing System
- G8443: All prescriptions created during the encounter were generated using a qualified e-prescribing system
OR E-prescribing System Available, but not Used for One or More Prescriptions Due to Patient/System Reasons
- G8446: Provider does have access to a qualified e-prescribing system. Some or all prescriptions generated during the encounter were printed or phoned in as required by state or federal law or regulations, patient request, or pharmacy system being unable to receive electronic transmission;
OR because they were for narcotics or other controlled substances Version 1.0 11/7/08 Page 2 of 3
OR Qualified E-prescribing System Available, but no Prescription(s) were Generated Due to Patient/System Reasons
- G8445: No prescriptions were generated during the encounter. Provider does have access to a qualified e-prescribing system
CMS (the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) encourages you to adopt e-prescribing, and we look forward to embarking on the e-prescribing initiative with you.