The New York State Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) Act mandates that all prescriptions, both controlled and non-controlled, be sent electronically. Last year the deadline for prescribers to meet the regulation was postponed until March 27, 2016. This new deadline is fast approaching.

In order to comply with I-STOP, prescribers must select and use a certified electronic prescribing computer application that meets all federal requirements for electronic prescriptions for controlled substances (EPCS).  This includes going through Identity Proofing and setting up 2-Factor authentication. The practitioner must also register each unique certified computer application used to electronically prescribe controlled substances with the New York State Department of Health (DOH), Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement (BNE).

The BNE recently sent out a letter to all prescribers advising the following:

“Please be aware that implementation timelines for EPCS software vary and may be lengthy. If you have not already begun this process, BNE strongly recommends that you begin immediately. Prescribers who have certified EPCS software and have completed the registration process are highly encouraged to begin electronically prescribing instead of using paper, to allow for time to resolve technical or workflow issues prior to the mandate’s effective date.”

MDToolbox has a simple signup process for both standard e-Prescribing and to setup EPCS. Most prescribers can complete the required ID proofing and 2-Factor Authentication setup within one day, but we also urge prescribers in NY to get started as soon as possible. This will ensure time to complete the application process and get all staff setup and trained.

To sign up for a free 30 day e-Prescribing trial with EPCS: New York e-Prescribing Account

Once you have signed up, you can register the application at:          

http://www.health.ny.gov/professionals/narcotic/electronic_prescribing/ropes.htm