The ETP 1.1 package includes specifications designed to support the electronic transfer of prescriptions nationally, in all care settings that make use of formal and legal electronic prescriptions, particularly those involving the transfer of a prescription across an organisational boundary (i.e. for example, from general practice to community pharmacy).

 

NEHTA’s Program Manager for e-Medication Management Toby Mathieson said connecting prescribing and dispensing systems (via intermediary repositories) using the NEHTA ETP specifications will drive adoption of national standards for clinical information, terminology and secure communications in both prescribing and dispensing organisations.

 

“This standards-based connectivity should deliver immediate benefits to healthcare providers and consumers,” he said.

 

With the release of this final package, the focus now will turn to the development of guidance for the implementation and use of the ETP solution along with compliance, conformance and governance.

 

In addition, Standards Australia has commenced consideration of the ETP package as a basis for the development of Australian Technical Specifications relevant for electronic prescriptions.

 

NEHTA will also continue to work with the Department of Health and Ageing and Medicare Australia to finalise the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) claiming solution where legal electronic prescriptions are used.

 

To access information on the release including how to provide feedback see http://www.nehta.gov.au/e-communications-in-practice/emedication-management

 

 

The Referral Release 1 requirement specifications define the clinical content, business requirements and technical solution that will support referrals between a GP and Specialist. The specifications are a foundation for a national referrals framework – a step towards the development of national specifications and methods to support the structured exchange of patient referral information between clinicians.  

 

NEHTA’s Program Manager for Continuity of Care and Diagnostic Services Sean Holmes said that as several jurisdictions and healthcare providers were currently working toward state-based referral systems, a repeatable implementation strategy has been adopted to allow for the iterative uptake of NEHTA specifications over time, and the development of national, interoperable referral solutions.

 

“The approach we are adopting is both consultative and incremental; in this way, participating stakeholders are able to shape the development of the national e-referral standard and its implementation within their specific clinical context,” he said.

 

To access information on the release including how to provide feedback see

 

 

For more information contact Alison Sweeney Public Affairs Officer 02 8298 2669 / 0414 187 350 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it