YO R K C O M E D S O C . O R G IN THE NEWS: UnitedHealthcare to Require E-Prescribing for Controlled Substances Sent Via Home Delivery Last Updated: Aug 6, 2019 Pennsylvania's E-Prescribing Law Effective Oct. 1, 2019, UnitedHealthcare's pharmacy benefit manager OptumRx will require e-prescriptions for opioids and other controlled substances that are filled by home delivery pharmacy service. A new Pennsylvania law - Act 96 of 2018 - on controlled substances e-prescribing will take effect on Oct. 24, 2019. The law requires e-prescribing of all Schedule II through V controlled substances, except when dispensed or administered directly to a patient by a practitioner or authorized agent, other than a pharmacist, to an ultimate user. The OptumRx policy applies only to home delivery pharmacy service and not to other types of prescription service such as in-store pickup. OptumRx says it is taking this step to help prevent opioid misuse and addiction. A two-step authentication and other security measures are required for the e-prescribing of controlled substances. UnitedHealthcare recommends that physicians and practices make sure that your electronic medical record system is set up for e-prescriptions. OptumRx offers several e-prescribing resources online at: * E-prescribing video * Resources on getting started with e-prescribing for both small practices and health systems * EMR certification guide 28 York County Medicine | FALL 2019 The Pennsylvania Medical Society (PAMED) offers FAQs to help practices prepare for this new requirement. Learn more about the law, including exceptions, and get PAMED's e-prescribing resources here. https://www.pamedsoc.org/detail/article/ electronic-prescribing-law PAMED members with questions can also contact our Knowledge Center at 855-PAMED4U (855-726-3348) or KnowledgeCenter@pamedsoc.org.http://www.YORKCOMEDSOC.ORG https://www.pamedsoc.org/detail/article/electronic-prescribing-law